UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2022

Consider the following statements: 1. Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature. 2. Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics. 3. Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 3 only
  3. 1 and 2
  4. 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

2 and 3

Explanation

Statement 2 is correct — nanoparticles of metallic oxides are used in cosmetics (e.g., sunscreens). Statement 3 is correct — some commercial-product nanoparticles entering the environment can be unsafe for humans. Statement 1 is incorrect — nanoparticles also occur naturally (e.g., volcanic ash, sea spray), not only through human manufacture.

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