When an international team of pumped a carbon dioxide and water mix into underground basalt rocks, basic chemistry took over.
The acidic mixture dissolved rocks’ calcium and magnesium and formed limestone Basically carbon dioxide is converted into stone, exclaimed the scientists.
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical, rational, and practical suggestion implied by the passage?
a) It is a cheap and practical method to produce limestone at commercial level for building purposes.
b) This can be used as one of the methods of carbon sequestration.
c) Basalt rock can be made a good source of calcium and magnesium minerals by this method.
d) Good rock-dissolving acid can be produced by mixing carbon dioxide and water.
Correct answer: b) This can be used as one of the methods of carbon sequestration.
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 CSAT Paper
Explanation:
The best answer is b) This can be used as one of the methods of carbon sequestration.
The passage describes a process that converts CO2 into limestone through reaction with basalt rocks. This aligns with the definition of carbon sequestration – capturing and storing atmospheric CO2 to mitigate climate change. The scientists’ excitement suggests this is the key implication of their work.
The other options don’t address the main point of converting CO2 into a stable form, focusing instead on unmentioned or secondary aspects of the process.