🔬 Science & TechnologyUPSC 2023Space & Space Technology

Consider the following activities:1. Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively2. Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime3. Capturing carbon dioxide released by various industries and pumping it into abandoned subterranean mines in the form of carbonated watersHow many of the above activities are often considered and discussed for carbon capture and sequestration?

aOnly one
bOnly two
cAll three
dNone
✓ Correct answer: c) All three
ExplanationStatement 1 is correct: Finely ground basalt rock is dispersed across agricultural lands to expedite the natural absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.This is known as enhanced rock weathering, where silicate minerals react with CO₂, forming stable carbonates and reducing atmospheric carbon, as well as improving the fertility of the soil.Statement 2 is correct: This method, referred to as ocean alkalinity enhancement, encompasses the addition of lime (calcium oxide or calcium hydroxide) to the oceans to elevate their alkalinity.By doing so, it boosts the oceans’ ability to absorb and retain carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus assisting in carbon sequestration.Statement 3 is correct: The process known as carbon capture and storage (CCS) involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes and storing them underground.Abandoned subterranean mines can be utilised as viable storage sites, where the captured carbon dioxide is injected into these locations as carbonated waters.151

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