Non-biodegradable Substances MCQs Quiz | Class 10

Understanding Non-biodegradable Substances

Non-biodegradable substances are materials that cannot be broken down by natural processes and microorganisms (like bacteria and fungi) into simpler, harmless components. Unlike biodegradable substances which decompose relatively quickly, non-biodegradable materials persist in the environment for very long periods, often hundreds or even thousands of years. This persistence poses significant environmental challenges, leading to various forms of pollution and ecological damage.

Definition and Characteristics

A substance is classified as non-biodegradable if it resists natural decomposition. Key characteristics include:

• Persistence: They do not decompose or decompose extremely slowly in natural conditions.
• Chemical Stability: Their complex chemical structures are not easily attacked by biological agents.
• Environmental Accumulation: Due to their persistence, they accumulate in the environment, leading to waste buildup.
• Pollution Potential: Their accumulation contributes to land, water, and air pollution, affecting ecosystems and human health.

Examples of Non-biodegradable Substances

Common examples encountered in our daily lives and industries include:

• Plastics: Polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, polystyrene (e.g., plastic bags, bottles, packaging, toys).
• Metals: Aluminium cans, iron scraps, lead, mercury (e.g., beverage cans, electronic waste, batteries).
• Glass: Bottles, jars, broken glass (e.g., food containers, windows).
• Synthetic Fibers: Nylon, polyester (e.g., certain clothes, fishing nets).
• Certain Chemicals: DDT, pesticides, some industrial chemicals, heavy metals.
• Rubber: Tyres, soles of shoes.
• Electronic Waste (E-waste): Contains plastics, metals, and toxic chemicals.

Persistence and Pollution Idea

The persistence of non-biodegradable substances is the core of the environmental problem they cause. When these materials are discarded, they do not disappear but instead accumulate in landfills, oceans, rivers, and even soil. This leads to:

• Land Pollution: Large quantities of plastic, glass, and metal waste pile up in landfills, consuming valuable land and often releasing harmful chemicals into the soil and groundwater.
• Water Pollution: Plastic waste, in particular, is a major marine pollutant. It harms aquatic life through entanglement and ingestion, breaks down into microplastics that enter the food chain, and alters marine ecosystems.
• Air Pollution: While non-biodegradable items themselves do not typically pollute the air directly through decomposition, their incineration can release toxic fumes and greenhouse gases.
• Habitat Destruction: Accumulated waste can destroy natural habitats and interfere with the movement and feeding patterns of wildlife.
• Clogging of Drains and Sewers: Plastic bags and other debris frequently block drainage systems, leading to flooding and unsanitary conditions.

Effective management strategies like reducing consumption, reusing items, and recycling (the 3Rs) are crucial to mitigate the environmental impact of non-biodegradable waste. Developing biodegradable alternatives and improving waste management infrastructure are also vital steps.

Quick Revision Points

• Non-biodegradable substances resist natural decomposition.
• They persist in the environment for very long durations.
• Examples include plastics, metals, glass, synthetic fibers, and certain chemicals.
• Their accumulation causes land, water, and air pollution.
• They harm wildlife, ecosystems, and human health.
• The 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) are essential for managing non-biodegradable waste.

Practice Questions

1. Which of the following materials is typically non-biodegradable?
1. Cotton cloth
2. Paper
3. Glass bottle
4. Food scraps
2. The primary reason non-biodegradable waste is a concern is its:
1. Pleasant smell
2. Quick decomposition
3. Long persistence in the environment
4. Nutrient richness
3. Which waste management strategy focuses on minimizing the amount of waste generated?
1. Recycle
2. Reuse
3. Reduce
4. Compost
4. Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi are ineffective in breaking down:
1. Dead leaves
2. Animal waste
3. Plastic bags
4. Vegetable peels
5. Which form of pollution is most directly associated with plastic waste accumulation in oceans?
1. Sound pollution
2. Air pollution
3. Water pollution
4. Soil pollution