Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?

1. Automobile exhaust

2. Tobacco smoke

3. Woodburning

4. Using varnished wooden furniture

5. Using products made of polyurethane

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

The correct answer is option 1.

Key PointsBenzene Overview:

• Benzene is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature, slightly soluble in water, and highly flammable.
  • It is both naturally occurring and produced through human activities, including industrial processes like oil refining.
  • Benzene is a known carcinogen and can cause various health issues, including cancers and blood disorders.

Sources of Benzene Pollution:

• Automobile Exhaust:
  • Automobile exhaust is a significant source of benzene pollution. Benzene is released into the air as a by-product of gasoline combustion in vehicle engines.
  • Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Tobacco Smoke:
  • Burning tobacco produces benzene, which smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke inhale. It contributes significantly to indoor air pollution.
  • Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• Wood Burning:
  • When wood is burned, benzene is released as part of the combustion process, contributing to air pollution, especially in areas where wood is used for heating.
  • Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• Using Varnished Wooden Furniture:
  • While varnished furniture may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene is typically not a significant component of emissions from varnishes.
  • Hence, statement 4 is not correct.
• Using Products Made of Polyurethane:
  • ​Polyurethane products can release certain chemicals, but benzene is generally not one of them.
  • Hence, statement 5 is not correct.

Additional Information

• Benzene in the Environment:
  • Benzene is commonly found in crude oil and as a by-product of various industrial processes.
  • In the environment, it is rapidly degraded in the upper atmosphere, but its presence in water bodies can result from its solubility in water and subsequent contamination through rainfall.
• Health Impacts:
  • Chronic exposure to benzene affects bone marrow and reduces the production of red and white blood cells, potentially leading to conditions like aplastic anemia. It is also linked to cancers, including leukemia.
• Control Measures:
  • Limiting exposure to sources of benzene, such as automobile exhaust, tobacco smoke, and open burning, can help reduce health risks associated with this pollutant.