Q77. Why is there a concern about copper smelting plants?
- They may release lethal quantities of carbon monoxide into the environment.
- The copper slag can cause the leaching of some heavy metals into the environment.
- They may release sulfur dioxide as a pollutant.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer – B
- Statement 1 is incorrect: Copper smelting does not release lethal quantities of carbon monoxide into the environment.
- Statement 2 is correct: The slag produced can contain significant concentrations of a number of potentially toxic elements including arsenic, lead, cadmium, barium, zinc, etc. The slag can release these potentially toxic elements into the environment under natural weathering conditions and cause pollution of soils, surface waters and groundwater. As slag is considered chemically inert, it is mixed with cement and is used to construct roads and railroad beds. It is also used for sandblasting. Moreover, it is also added to roofing shingles.
- Statement 3 is correct. Copper smelters are the largest source of sulphur oxides (SOx) and trace elements. Suspended particles have a pollution scope of 2-3 km, while Sulphur dioxide has a range of as much as 15 km.
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