Which of the following is/are environmental hazard(s) due to geothermal power plants? Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

1.Noise pollution

2.Production of SO2 and NOx

3.Production of H2S (toxic gas)

4.Production of CO2

A1 only

B2 and 4 only

C3 only

D1, 2, 3 and 4 ✓ Correct

Correct answer: (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

Geothermal power plants can create all four listed hazards, namely noise, sulphur and nitrogen oxides, toxic hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide.

Statement 1 holds because drilling and steam venting produce noise pollution.

Statement 2 holds because the geothermal fluids can release sulphur and nitrogen oxides.

Statement 3 holds because hydrogen sulphide, a toxic gas, escapes from many geothermal reservoirs.

Statement 4 holds because dissolved carbon dioxide is released with the geothermal steam.

Although far cleaner than coal, geothermal plants still emit these gases and need careful management.

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