Q1: 'Sterilised zone' around a hazardous chemical industry is an area with __________ km radius around it, in which the total population/inhabitants should be less than 20000 preferably in the upwind direction.

ANS:B - 5

The 'sterilized zone' around a hazardous chemical industry is an area with a 5 km radius around it, in which the total population/inhabitants should be less than 20000, preferably in the upwind direction. Explanation:

• A sterilized zone is a safety precaution established around hazardous chemical facilities to minimize the risk to human life and property in the event of accidents, such as chemical leaks or explosions.
• The purpose of the sterilized zone is to ensure that the population density within the immediate vicinity of the facility is low, reducing the potential impact of hazardous events on nearby residents.
• A radius of 5 km is commonly recommended for the sterilized zone, as this distance provides a buffer zone of sufficient size to mitigate the effects of chemical releases and explosions.
• Within this 5 km radius, the total population should ideally be less than 20000, with preference given to locating fewer inhabitants in the upwind direction to minimize exposure to potential hazards carried by prevailing winds.
• By establishing a sterilized zone around hazardous chemical facilities, authorities aim to protect both the workers within the facility and the surrounding communities from the risks associated with industrial accidents.