Question

Which of the following group is not ‘biodegradable’ ?

• A. Vegetable peels, dead leaves, paper
• B. Cow dung, leather bag, water
• C. Polythene bag, rubber band, ball pen
• D. Paper, fruits, bones

Hint:

Plastics, glass, and heavy metals are the most common examples of non-biodegradable pollutants used in such questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine which of the given groups is not biodegradable, we first need to understand the concept of biodegradability. A biodegradable substance is one that can be decomposed by the action of living organisms, usually ranging from bacteria to mammals. These are generally organic materials that break down naturally in the environment.

Let's analyze each option:

1. Vegetable peels, dead leaves, paper: All these items are organic and can be decomposed by microorganisms. Therefore, this group is biodegradable.
2. Cow dung, leather bag, water: Cow dung is organic and decomposes naturally. Leather, although it takes longer and undergoes a tanning process, is still derived from natural sources like animal hides and can be broken down eventually. Water is a simple compound and generally doesn't fit the typical discussion of biodegradability, but it does not contribute to pollution in an undecomposed state. Thus, this group can be considered biodegradable.
3. Polythene bag, rubber band, ball pen: Polythene bags and ball pens are plastics. Plastics are synthetic and not easily decomposed by natural processes, hence they are non-biodegradable. Rubber, depending on whether it is natural or synthetic, can be harder to decompose if it's synthetic rubber. Overall, this group is predominantly non-biodegradable.
4. Paper, fruits, bones: Paper and fruits are organic materials and decompose naturally. Bones, while taking longer, are organic materials that will eventually decompose. Therefore, this group is biodegradable.

Based on the analysis above, the correct answer is Polythene bag, rubber band, ball pen, as these items comprise synthetic materials that do not break down easily in the environment.