Q. Formation of non-functional methaemoglobin causes blue-baby syndrome. This is due to
A) Excess of arsenic concentration in drinking water
B) Excess of nitrates in drinking water
C) Deficiency of iron in food
D) Increased methane content in the atmosphere
Explanation
The environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the Maximum Contamination Lavel (MCL) of nitrate for the safety of drinking water. Nitrate levels at or above this level have been known to cause a potentially fatal blood disorder in infants under six months of age called methaemoglobinemia or blue-baby syndrome, in which there is a reduction in the oxygen carrying capacity of blood.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.