Correct option is D
Explanation:
Phytoremediation refers to the use of plants to absorb, detoxify, and remove pollutants from the environment, particularly from soil and water. This technique is particularly effective for cleaning up toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and other contaminants in polluted ecosystems. By utilizing plants that can uptake and store or degrade these harmful substances, phytoremediation offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for environmental remediation. It is a natural process that minimizes disruption to the environment compared to mechanical or chemical remediation methods.
The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of phytoremediation. While improving the health of diseased plants (option a) might occur indirectly, it is not the main goal of phytoremediation. Removing dissolved oxygen from aquatic ecosystems (option b) is detrimental and not related to phytoremediation. Eradicating invasive species (option c) is a different ecological management strategy, not directly associated with phytoremediation.
Information Booster:
· Phytoremediation uses various plant species to address soil and water pollution.
· It is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly remediation method.
· Plants such as willow, poplar, and certain grasses are often used for their high uptake capacity.
· The process can involve absorption, accumulation, degradation, and stabilization of pollutants.
· It can also improve soil structure and enhance microbial activity beneficial for soil health.
· Phytoremediation is particularly effective for heavy metals, pesticides, and hydrocarbons.
Additional Information:
· Option (a): Improving the health of diseased plants is not the focus of phytoremediation; it primarily targets pollutant removal.
· Option (b): Dissolved oxygen removal is harmful to aquatic ecosystems and unrelated to phytoremediation processes.
· Option (c): While invasive species management is crucial, it does not involve the principles of phytoremediation, which focuses on pollution removal.