Environmental Health — MCQs

Environmental Health Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 781: The Assmann psychrometer is primarily used for measuring which of the following in environmental conditions?

A. Humidity (Correct Answer)
B. Velocity
C. Temperature
D. Sound intensity

Explanation: ***Humidity*** - The **Assmann psychrometer** uses two thermometers (wet-bulb and dry-bulb) to measure the **difference in temperature** caused by evaporative cooling, which is directly related to **relative humidity**. - Its primary application is to determine the **moisture content** of the air, a key aspect of environmental conditions. *Velocity* - **Velocity** refers to the speed and direction of an object, typically measured with instruments like **anemometers** for air current velocity. - While air movement influences psychrometer readings, the instrument itself does not directly measure velocity. *Temperature* - Although the Assmann psychrometer uses thermometers to obtain readings, its primary purpose is not just to measure **temperature** in isolation. - It uses the difference between dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures to calculate **humidity**, rather than simply reporting ambient temperature. *Sound intensity* - **Sound intensity** is a measure of the power carried by sound waves, typically measured in decibels using a **sound level meter**. - This measurement has no relation to the function or design of a psychrometer.

Question 782: In hospital infection control, which instrument is used to monitor humidity levels to prevent nosocomial infections?

A. Barometer
B. Hygrometer (Correct Answer)
C. Thermometer
D. Anemometer

Explanation: ***Hygrometer*** - A **hygrometer** is specifically designed to measure **humidity** or the moisture content in the atmosphere. - Maintaining optimal **humidity levels** (typically 30-60%) is crucial in hospitals to control the spread of **pathogens** and prevent nosocomial infections. *Barometer* - A **barometer** measures **atmospheric pressure**, which is important for weather forecasting but not directly for hospital infection control. - It does not provide information about the moisture content in the air. *Anemometer* - An **anemometer** is used to measure **wind speed**, which is irrelevant to monitoring indoor environmental conditions for infection control. - It does not provide any data related to air humidity. *Thermometer* - A **thermometer** measures **temperature**, which is a separate environmental parameter from humidity. - While temperature control is important in healthcare settings, it does not directly monitor moisture content.

Question 783: Most important indicator of air pollution is:

A. SO2 (Correct Answer)
B. CO
C. N2O
D. CO2

Explanation: ***SO2*** - **Sulfur dioxide (SO2)** is a primary indicator of atmospheric pollution, particularly in regions with significant industrial activity or fossil fuel combustion. - Exposure to high levels of SO2 can cause **respiratory problems** and contribute to acid rain and particulate matter formation. *Carbon Dioxide (CO2)* - While **carbon dioxide (CO2)** is a major greenhouse gas and contributor to climate change, it is not typically considered the most important indicator of **local air pollution** impacting human health. - CO2 is a natural component of the atmosphere, and its primary concern is its role in global warming rather than direct toxicity at ambient levels. *CO* - **Carbon monoxide (CO)** is a hazardous air pollutant that primarily affects human health by reducing oxygen delivery to organs. - While a significant local pollutant, measuring **SO2** often provides a broader indication of industrial and combustion emissions, making it a more comprehensive pollution indicator in many contexts. *N2O* - **Nitrous oxide (N2O)** is a potent greenhouse gas and an ozone-depleting substance. - It is typically associated with agricultural activities and industrial processes, but its direct impact as a primary indicator of **local air pollution** on human health is less prominent compared to SO2, CO, or particulate matter.

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Water Quality and Health

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Air Pollution and Health Effects

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Solid Waste Management

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Hazardous Waste Management

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Housing and Health

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Noise Pollution

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Radiation Health Effects

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Climate Change and Health

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Environmental Impact Assessment

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Disaster Management and Preparedness

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Vector Control

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Environmental Legislation

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