Question 3 from UPSC CSE 2014 - Environment

Question

Which of the following are some important pollutants released by steel industries in India?
1. Oxides of sulphur
2. Oxides of nitrogen
3. Carbon monoxide
4. Carbon dioxide
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. 1, 2, 3, and 4

Strategy: Identify all listed pollutants (SOx, NOx, CO, and CO2) as correct emissions from steel manufacturing processes.

Key Info: ## Steel Industry Emissions and Control

Steel industries contribute significantly to air pollution in India, primarily through energy-intensive processes like coke oven operations, blast furnaces, and basic oxygen furnaces. Major pollutants released include:

- **Oxides of sulphur (SOx):** Arise from sulfur-containing coke and fuels. SOx contribute to acid rain and respiratory issues.
- **Oxides of nitrogen (NOx):** Formed during high-temperature combustion, NOx are precursors to smog and acid rain.
- **Carbon monoxide (CO):** Emanates from incomplete combustion in blast furnaces. CO is a poisonous gas and hazardous to health.
- **Carbon dioxide (CO2):** A greenhouse gas produced in large amounts due to combustion and metallurgical reactions. Steel-making is one of the largest industrial sources of CO2 emissions globally.

### Regulation and Other Pollutants

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) regulates emissions from steel plants under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Modern abatement equipment like electrostatic precipitators, scrubbers, and low-NOx burners are mandated to control these emissions.

While fine particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and heavy metals are also important pollutants, the four listed options (SOx, NOx, CO, CO2) are principal emissions directly related to primary operational processes in steel manufacturing.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1, 3, and 4

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 2 and 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: 1 and 4 only

Which of the following are some important pollutants released by steel industries in India? Oxides of sulphur Oxides of nitrogen Carbon monoxide Carbon dioxide Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Which of the following are some important pollutants released by steel industries in India?

Oxides of sulphur

Oxides of nitrogen

Carbon monoxide

Carbon dioxide
Select the correct answer using the code given below: