Match List - I with List - II : Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
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Remembering the specific biological and environmental effects of major pollutants is crucial for environmental chemistry questions. CO affects haemoglobin, SO$_2$ harms plants, NOx causes acid rain, and PCBs are carcinogenic.
Let's match each compound with its known effect or affected species.
(a) Carbon monoxide (CO): It is a toxic gas that binds very strongly to the iron atom in haemoglobin, forming carboxyhaemoglobin. This complex is much more stable than oxyhaemoglobin, which impairs the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. Thus, (a) matches with (iii).
(b) Sulphur dioxide (SO$_2$): It is a major air pollutant, and in plants, it is known to cause various damages, including the stiffness and early falling of flower buds. Thus, (b) matches with (iv).
(c) Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): These are persistent organic pollutants that are known to be carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Thus, (c) matches with (i).
(d) Oxides of nitrogen (NOx): While having many harmful effects, some plants, like those of the Pyrus genus (pear trees), can absorb and metabolize oxides of nitrogen from the atmosphere. Thus, (d) matches with (ii).
The correct set of matches is (a)-(iii), (b)-(iv), (c)-(i), (d)-(ii). This corresponds to option (A).
