Which Indian institute developed a fluorescent sensor capable of detecting cyanide in water and human cells, using just a UV light source?

The correct answer is (D) IIT Guwahati
Explanation:
· Researchers at IIT Guwahati developed an innovative fluorescent molecular sensor capable of detecting extremely small quantities of cyanide ions in water and even inside human cells.
· The sensor uses a simple UV light source to identify cyanide contamination by producing a bright fluorescence response, making the detection process highly convenient, fast, and cost-effective.
Cyanide is a highly toxic chemical that poses serious environmental and health risks, and its rapid detection is crucial for:
Water safety
· Industrial pollution monitoring
· Clinical and biological studies
· Traditional cyanide detection methods are often expensive, slow, or require complex instruments. IIT Guwahati’s innovation addresses these limitations by offering a quick, accurate, and portable detection system.
· This research significantly contributes to India’s efforts in environmental monitoring, toxicology studies, and public health protection.
Information Booster (Important for SSC Exams):
· Cyanide contamination can occur from industries such as electroplating, mining, pharmaceuticals, and plastics.
· In the human body, cyanide inhibits cytochrome c oxidase, preventing cells from using oxygen—leading to rapid toxicity.
· Fluorescent sensors use light-based detection, making them highly sensitive even at very low concentrations.
· IIT Guwahati is known for its strong research in chemical sciences, nanotechnology, biosensing, and environmental engineering.
Additional Knowledge (Option-wise):
(a) IIT Delhi
• Known for engineering and technological innovations but not linked to this specific cyanide detection sensor.
(b) IIT Madras
• Renowned for advanced research including sensors, but not the developer of this particular technology.
(c) IIT Bombay
• Works extensively in chemical and biomedical engineering, but again, not associated with this cyanide sensor.
(d) IIT Guwahati — Correct
• The institute’s chemistry and biosciences researchers led this breakthrough innovation.