Q24 / 180 · AIIMS 2012 · Botany

Select the correct statement.

  • A
    Particulate matter of size $10 \mu \mathrm{m}$ can create severe damage to the lungs.
  • B
    Particulate matter of size greater than 2.5 $\mu \mathrm{m}$ can get trapped in lungs and cause problems.
  • Correct answer
    C
    Particulate matter of size less than $2.5 \mu \mathrm{m}$ penetrate deep into lungs.
  • D
    None of the above.

Solution

Particulate matter mainly includes dust, soot particles, volatile hydrocarbons, some sulphate and metallic residues emitted into the air by sources such as factories, power plants, vehicles, etc. PM is usually divided into different classes based on size ranging from total suspended matter (TSP) to PM-10 (particles with diameter of $10 \mu$ or less) to PM-2.5 (particles with diameter of $2.5 \mu$ or less). Smallest particles pose highest human health risk. Larger particles $(\leq 10 \mu)$ can easily be expelled from lungs through mucus but finer particles $(\leq 2.5 \mu)$ penetrate deep in lungs and can cause severe lung damage including lung cancer.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

Relevant Questions