Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding an ecosystem?
(i) Non-biodegradable materials harm various members of the ecosystem.
(ii) Non-biodegradable materials are decomposed by biological processes.
(iii) Non-biodegradable materials do not persist in the environment forever.

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (c) i only

Explanation:

• Statement (i) is correct: Non-biodegradable materials, such as plastics, metals, and chemicals, harm various members of the ecosystem. These materials are not broken down by natural processes and accumulate in the environment, causing pollution and affecting both flora and fauna.

• Statement (ii) is incorrect: Non-biodegradable materials are not decomposed by biological processes. Unlike biodegradable materials (e.g., food waste, leaves), these materials cannot be broken down by microorganisms and persist in the environment for years to centuries.

• Statement (iii) is also incorrect: Non-biodegradable materials do persist in the environment for a very long time, often forever, because they do not undergo natural decomposition. This contributes to long-term pollution.

Information Booster:

• Non-biodegradable materials include materials like plastics, metals, and synthetic fibers that do not decompose naturally and remain in the environment for a long time, causing harm to wildlife and the ecosystem.

• Examples of harm caused by non-biodegradable materials include plastic ingestion by marine animals, which can lead to death, and land pollution that disrupts the natural habitat.

• Recycling and proper waste disposal are essential to reduce the impact of non-biodegradable materials on ecosystems.

Additional Information:

• Biodegradable materials (like food scraps) are broken down by microorganisms and return to the environment in the form of compost, but non-biodegradable materials do not have this property.

• Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental concerns caused by non-biodegradable materials.