Q: There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the industry in the manufacture of various products Why?
a) They can accumulate in the environment and contaminate water and soil.
b) They can enter the food chains.
c) They can trigger the production of free radicals.
The correct answer is 1, 2, and 3.
Nanoparticle
⦁ It is defined as a particle of matter that is between 1 and 100 nanometres (nm) in diameter.
⦁ It is formed through the breaking down of larger particles or by controlled assembly processes.
⦁ It is used in the manufacture of scratchproof eyeglasses, crack-resistant paints, anti-graffiti coatings for walls, transparent sunscreens, stain-repellent fabrics, self-cleaning windows, and ceramic coatings for solar cells.
⦁ It can also be used in stronger, lighter, cleaner, and “smarter” surfaces and systems.
⦁ The toxicity of nanoparticles depends on their chemical composition.
⦁ The properties of particles may change in unpredictable ways at nanoparticle form.
⦁ It can accumulate in the environment, and contaminate water and soil. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
⦁ It can enter food chains. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.
⦁ It can trigger the production of free radicals. Hence, Statement 3 is correct.
⦁ It may cross cell membranes.
⦁ It can reach the blood and may reach other target sites such as the liver, heart, or blood cells and may cause damage to cells as they stay for a persistently long time.
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