Question
GSEasyPrelims 2024Environment & Ecology

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions?

Explanation

Power plants burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and, to a lesser extent, natural gas) are the largest source of sulfur dioxide emissions globally. Coal, in particular, contains high levels of sulfur, and when burned, it releases large amounts of SO₂.   

  • Locomotives, especially older ones, use diesel fuel which contains sulfur. While locomotives do contribute to sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, their contribution is relatively minor compared to larger industrial sources.  

  • Ships, particularly large cargo vessels and tankers, often use bunker fuel, a heavy, sulfur-rich fuel oil. This contributes significantly to SO₂ emissions, particularly in maritime regions.  However, they are still overshadowed by emissions from power plants 

  • The process of extraction of metals from ore involves heating ores that contain sulfur compounds, releasing SO₂ into the atmosphere. However, its contribution is less than that of power plants.

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Most repeated Topics from Environment & Ecology in Last 5 years

Repeated Topics
Questions in Last 5 Years
Environmental Pollution15 (21%)
Climate Change Mitigation14 (19%)
Institutional Measures for Environment Conservation12 (17%)
Climate Change12 (17%)
Indian Biodiversity - Fauna8 (11%)

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