Question

Which of the following statements about sulphur oxides are correct?

1. They are released by oil refineries and smelters.

2. They support the growth of lichens and mosses.

3. They lead to acid rain.

• A. 1 and 3 only
• B. 2 and 3 only
• C. All are correct
• D. 1 and 2 only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 and 3 only

• Correct Answer: Option A) 1 and 3 only

• They are released by oil refineries and smelters - Correct. Sulphur oxides, particularly sulphur dioxide (SO2), are released during industrial processes that involve burning fossil fuels containing sulphur. Oil refineries process crude oil which contains sulphur compounds, and smelters extract metals from sulphide ores through heating, releasing SO2 as a byproduct.

• They support the growth of lichens and mosses - Incorrect. This statement is false. Sulphur oxides actually inhibit the growth of lichens and mosses. These organisms are very sensitive to air pollution, especially SO2, and are often used as bioindicators of air quality. Areas with high sulphur oxide pollution typically show reduced lichen and moss diversity and abundance.They lead to acid rain - correct.When sulphur oxides are released into the atmosphere, they react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulphuric acid. This contributes to acid rain formation, which can harm aquatic ecosystems, damage forests, and corrode building materials and infrastructure.