Question

1) Describe the human activity(ies) that would result in the release of the following chemicals and what organisms are likely to be exposed. (2 points each)

A) trichloroethane B) triclosan (5-Chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol) C) tetrachlorobiphenylD) dichlorofluoromethane

Answer 1

Trichloroethane:This is an organic chemical releases into the environment by human activity. It is widely used solvent in degreasing operations, as well as a solvent in household products such as cleaners, paints, and glues. It is also found in building materials. These are the following human activities responsible for release of trichloroethane.

• Degreasing activities / industrial sites
• Building materials
• Paints
• Glues
• Household cleaning products
• In aerosol sprays

Trichloroethane dissolves in water, present in air. It causes damege to ozone layer. Thus, the whole organism are exposed to this contaminant.

2. Triclosan: Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in some consumer products. Different human activities like using toothpaste, soaps, detergents, toys, and surgical cleaning treatments are responsible for release of triclosan into the environment. The exposed organism are human, plants and aquatic animals like fishes.

3. Tetrachlorobiphenyl is an organic compound which was once widely used as dielectric and coolant fluids in eleectrical equipments like air conditioner or refrigerator. It is still widely used in different human activities like lubricating and cutting oil, hydraulic fluid, carbon less copy papper etc. This compound is accumulated in air and water, thus all the organisms are exposed to this chemical.

4. Dichlorofluoromethane is a chlorofluorocarbon (halogenated organic compound) which is widely used in different human activities like refrigerants, propellants in aerosols, and solvents. This compound causes ozone depletion. This is dissolved in water and thus, many organism including human beings are exposed to it.