Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Activated carbon is a good adsorbent of organic compounds…

Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Activated carbon is a good adsorbent of organic compounds because of its high surface area and porous structure. Statement-II: Activated carbon can remove pesticides, heavy metals and bacteria from contaminated water. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
  1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
  2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
  3. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
  4. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Solution

Per the official UPSC key, the answer is C. Statement-I correctly describes activated carbon's adsorbent properties; Statement-II overstates its capability for heavy metals/bacteria. UPSC officially marked C.

Asked in: UPSC Prelims 2023

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