Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option d

Explanation
Recently, scientists in Italy have discovered a strain of bacteria capable of breaking down Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," providing a potential breakthrough in the cleanup of these toxic and persistent substances.

Statement 1 is correct: PFAS are often called "Forever Chemicals" because they stay in the environment for a very long time and do not break down easily. This is due to the strong carbon-fluorine bonds in their structure, which are some of the toughest bonds found in chemicals.

Statement 2 is correct: PFAS are man-made chemicals that do not occur naturally. Because they are very stable and don’t break down easily, they stay in the environment for a long time and can build up in water, soil, and even in the bodies of people and animals. It can increase the risk of kidney cancer and testicular cancer, liver and kidney diseases, and reproductive issues, including pregnancy-induced hypertension.

Statement 3 is correct: PFAS arE made up of carbon and fluorine atoms. In perfluoroalkyl substances, all the hydrogen atoms in the carbon chain are replaced by fluorine, while in polyfluoroalkyl substances, some hydrogen atoms remain. The carbon-fluorine bond is extremely strong, which makes these substances highly stable and resistant to breaking down. Because of this, PFAS do not easily degrade in the environment or the human body. Their strong resistance to water, oil, heat, and chemicals gives them unique properties, making them useful in a wide range of products such as non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, stain-resistant fabrics, and water-repellent clothing.