The use of plants to absorb and accumulate hazardous materials from the soil is termed as

Correct option is B

The correct answer is phytoremediation.
Phytoremediation is a process where plants are used to remove, stabilize, or degrade hazardous materials, particularly from contaminated soils, water, or air. Plants have the natural ability to absorb contaminants through their roots and either store, stabilize, or break them down.
This method is cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable for mitigating pollution, especially heavy metals, pesticides, and hydrocarbons.
Key Aspects of Phytoremediation:
1. Phytoextraction: Plants absorb contaminants and store them in their tissues.
2. Phytostabilization: Plants immobilize contaminants, preventing their spread.
3. Rhizofiltration: Roots filter contaminants from water.
4. Phytodegradation: Plants break down contaminants into less harmful substances.
5. Phytovolatilization: Plants uptake contaminants and release them in a less harmful form through transpiration.
Information Booster 1. Bioremediation:
· The broader use of microorganisms or plants to remove or neutralize contaminants in polluted sites.
· Phytoremediation is a type of bioremediation specifically involving plants.
2. Biodegradation:
· The breakdown of organic substances by microorganisms into simpler, less harmful substances.
· Important in managing organic pollutants like hydrocarbons.
3. Biotransformation:
· The process where organisms convert hazardous substances into less toxic or non-toxic compounds.
· Used in pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Additional Knowledge · Types of Contaminants Addressed by Phytoremediation:
· Heavy metals (e.g., lead, cadmium, arsenic)
· Organic pollutants (e.g., pesticides, hydrocarbons)
· Advantages:
· Cost-effective and environmentally friendly
· Minimal disturbance to the ecosystem
· Applicable to large areas
· Limitations:
· Slow process
· Limited to surface and shallow soil contamination
Key Points:
· Phytoremediation uses plants for environmental cleanup.
· Bioremediation can use both plants and microorganisms for remediation.