Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste? 1. Beryllium 2. Cadmium 3. Chromium 4. Heptachlor 5. Mercury 6. Lead 7. Plutonium Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Explanation
Out of the listed elements, the following are released into the environment due to improper e-waste disposal:
1. Beryllium 2. Cadmium 3. Chromium 5. Mercury 6. Lead
Here's why these elements are found in e-waste and why the others are not:
Beryllium, Cadmium, Chromium, Mercury, and Lead: These are all heavy metals commonly used in various electronic components like circuit boards, batteries, and monitors. Improper disposal of e-waste can cause these toxic materials to leach into the soil and water, posing environmental and health risks.
Heptachlor: This is an organic compound historically used as an insecticide. While it may have been present in some older electronic equipment, it's not a typical component of modern electronics and wouldn't be a major concern in e-waste disposal.
Plutonium: This is a radioactive element primarily used in nuclear weapons and reactors. It's not a component of electronic devices and wouldn't be present in e-waste.
So, the answer should not contain 4 and 7.