Consider the following statements: Statement I: Activated carbon is a good and an attractive tool to remove pollutants from effluent streams and to remediate contaminants from various industries. Statement II: Activated carbon exhibits a large surface area and a strong potential for adsorbing heavy metals. Statement III: Activated carbon can be easily synthesized from environmental wastes with high carbon content. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

1. A. Both statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
2. B. Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
3. C. Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
4. D. Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct.

Answer: A

Explanation

Statement I asserts that activated carbon is an effective tool for removing pollutants. Statement II is correct: Activated carbon’s effectiveness stems from its highly porous structure, which provides a large surface area and strong adsorptive capacity, particularly for heavy metals. This property directly explains why it’s good at removing pollutants. Statement III is correct: Activated carbon can be synthesized from various carbon-rich environmental wastes, such as coconut shells, wood, or agricultural residues, making it a sustainable and attractive option. This ease of synthesis from waste also contributes to its attractiveness as a remediation tool. Both statements II and III provide valid reasons and explanations for the utility and attractiveness of activated carbon as described in Statement I. The use of activated carbon in pollution control and waste management is a significant environmental topic for UPSC.