Answer: Is lipid soluble, so it is absorbed and biomagnified up the aquatic food chain.
- A Is highly water soluble and is therefore rapidly excreted by the kidneys
- B Is lipid soluble, so it is absorbed and biomagnified up the aquatic food chain
- C Decomposes quickly in sunlight
- D Cannot cross biological membranes
Correct answer: B. Is lipid soluble, so it is absorbed and biomagnified up the aquatic food chain
Explanation: Lipid-soluble methylmercury passes easily through membranes, is retained in tissues and becomes concentrated at each trophic level (biomagnification), reaching toxic levels in fish consumed by humans, causing Minamata disease.
Classical smog is a reducing mixture of SO₂ and fog, while photochemical smog is an oxidising mixture generated by UV-driven reactions of NOx and hydrocarbons.
Concept context
Understand how human activities alter the atmosphere, water, and soil. Covers air pollutants, smog types, ozone depletion, acid rain, greenhouse effect, water and soil pollution, and the principles of green chemistry.