GS PrelimsScience and TechnologyMicrobes in Human Welfare2015

With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements: 1. The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum. 2. Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A

1 only

B

2 only

C

Both 1 and 2

D

Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: Option D

Explanation

1. Statement 1 is incorrect. The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets used by Indian Railways is primarily carried out by anaerobic bacterial consortia, often sourced from DRDO technology. While fungi may be present, the process is initiated and driven mainly by bacteria, not a specific fungal inoculum. 2. Statement 2 is incorrect. The anaerobic decomposition of human waste results in the production of biogas (which is primarily methane and carbon dioxide) and treated effluent (largely water) along with sludge. Ammonia and water vapour are not the *only* end products; methane and carbon dioxide are significant gaseous products. 3. Therefore, neither statement 1 nor statement 2 is correct.

More Science and Technology PYQs

View all Science and Technology questions →

Master UPSC Revision

Get 10,000+ topic-wise MCQs, spaced repetition, daily CSAT challenges, and detailed performance analytics.

Coming Soon to Play Store
Coming Soon to Play Store