Which of the following is the full form of PCB?

The correct answer is - Poly Chlorinated Biphenyls

Key Points

• Poly Chlorinated Biphenyls
  • PCBs are a group of synthetic organic chemicals that contain 209 individual chlorinated chemicals (known as congeners).
  • They have been used in a variety of industrial applications due to their non-flammability, chemical stability, and electrical insulating properties.
  • PCBs are known for their environmental persistence and potential to accumulate in living organisms.
  • They were widely used in electrical equipment, heat exchangers, and as additives in paints, sealants, and plastics.

Additional Information

• Environmental Impact of PCBs
  • PCBs have been classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) due to their long-term stability and ability to travel long distances in the environment.
  • They can accumulate in the food chain, leading to higher concentrations in apex predators and humans.
  • PCBs are associated with various health risks, including cancer, immune system suppression, and reproductive disorders.
• Regulation and Cleanup
  • The production of PCBs was banned in the United States in 1979 under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
  • Efforts to clean up PCB-contaminated sites are ongoing under the Superfund program and other environmental initiatives.
  • Proper disposal and management practices are essential to prevent further environmental contamination.