- A Waste byproducts generated as a direct and largely unavoidable result of large-scale electricity generation processes at coal and gas power stations according to conventional understanding
- B Electronic waste (discarded computers, phones, TVs); contains toxic metals (Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr); improperly disposed of in developing countries; causes soil and water pollution
- C Organic food waste that is routinely collected on a daily basis from households, restaurants, hotels, and commercial kitchens in routine practice overall in most cases
- D Medical waste, including used syringes, soiled dressings, and other biologically contaminated surgical materials discarded from hospitals under typical conditions according to standard textbooks
Correct answer: B. Electronic waste (discarded computers, phones, TVs); contains toxic metals (Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr); improperly disposed of in developing countries; causes soil and water pollution
Explanation: E-waste: discarded electronic devices. Contains toxic heavy metals (lead in solder, mercury in displays, cadmium in batteries, hexavalent chromium in plating). Improper recycling (burning, acid stripping) releases toxins. Fastest growing waste stream globally. Formal recycling recovers valuable metals while protecting health.
Concept context
Pollution, global warming, ozone depletion, deforestation, and sustainability. Important for NEET and general awareness.