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GATE 2025 ES – Question 33

Solid and Hazardous Waste Management · Hazardous Waste Management · 1 mark · Multiple select

Which statements about cumulative toxicity are correct?

  1. Bioaccumulation occurs within an exposed organism; biomagnification is increasing concentration at higher trophic levels.
  2. Biomagnification occurs within an exposed organism; bioaccumulation is increasing concentration at higher trophic levels.
  3. These processes occur with heavy metals, but not pesticides or pharmaceuticals.
  4. These processes can occur with heavy metals, pesticides and pharmaceuticals.

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) Bioaccumulation occurs within an exposed organism; biomagnification is increasing concentration at higher trophic levels.; (D) These processes can occur with heavy metals, pesticides and pharmaceuticals.

Explanation

A gives the standard distinction between accumulation in an individual and magnification through a food chain. B reverses the terms. Persistent, bioavailable chemicals in the listed classes can accumulate or magnify, so C’s exclusion is false and D is the intended possible-effects statement. Select **A, D**; behavior depends on the particular chemical, not merely its broad class.

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