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Match the characteristics to the pesticides:

Options:

a) DDT
b) Organophosphorus

Characteristics:

Persists in the environment
Breaks down quickly
Broad-spectrum insecticide
Associated with rapid degradation

User Dangh
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

DDT is known for its persistence in the environment and use as a broad-spectrum insecticide, while organophosphorus pesticides are associated with rapid degradation and avoidance of biomagnification.

Step-by-step explanation:

To match the characteristics with the correct pesticides, we must consider their properties and impact on the environment and organisms. DDT, or dichloro, diphenyl, trichloroethane, is an organochlorine pesticide known for its persistence in the environment, which led to its eventual ban in the United States and other countries due to its harmful effects, such as thinning of eggshells in birds of prey.

Organophosphorus pesticides, on the other hand, are characterized by their ability to break down quickly in the environment and are not stored in animal tissue, which minimizes biomagnification. However, they are associated with acute toxicity and can be very harmful to humans at high enough doses.

Based on the provided characteristics, we can match them as follows:

  • Persists in the environment - DDT
  • Breaks down quickly - Organophosphorus
  • Broad-spectrum insecticide - DDT
  • Associated with rapid degradation - Organophosphorus
User MuthaFury
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