Question

Is the polymer type of microplastics relevant to their negative health effects, or is it primarily determined by size and additives like BPA?

a. Polymer type significantly affects the health effects of microplastics.
b. Health effects of microplastics are primarily influenced by size and additives.
c. The chemical composition of microplastics has no impact on health.
d. Microplastics' endocrine disruptor additives are the main cause of health concerns.

Answer 1

The negative health effects of microplastics are primarily determined by their size and additives like BPA rather than the polymer type.

Step-by-step explanation:

The negative health effects of microplastics are primarily determined by their size and additives rather than the polymer type. While the polymer type can introduce hazards to the environment and aquatic animals, the health effects on humans are mainly influenced by the size of the microplastics and the presence of additives like BPA (bisphenol A). BPA is an endocrine disruptor that mimics hormones and can interfere with the regulation of the endocrine system.

Microplastics that are small enough to be diffusible can potentially cause health problems as they can enter the body. The release of small molecules from polymers and the potential for these molecules to act as hormone disruptors can impact aquatic animals and the environment. Additionally, the presence of additives like BPA in microplastics can have negative effects on human health, especially during prenatal and postnatal development.