Noise Pollution - GS questions based on daily current affairs

1)   The level at which sound becomes physically painful is

a. Above 95 dB
b. Above 65 dB
c. Above 80 dB
d. Above 90 dB
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: Above 80 dB

Explanation:
Noise level is measured in terms of decibels (dB). A modifies scale called decibel – A (dbA) takes pitch into account. W.H.O. (World Health Organization) has prescribed optimum noise level as 45 dB by day and 35 dB by night. Anything above 80 dB is hazardous.


2)   Apart from hearing loss, effects produced by excessive noise / noise
pollution are

1) Migraine headaches
2) Heart Palpitation
3) Dizziness
4) Nausea
5) Gastric Ulcers


a. Only 1, 2 and 3
b. Only 1, 2, 3 and 4
c. Only 4 and 5
d. All of the above
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: All of the above

Explanation:
Noise also leads to irritation and annoyance. Noise also causes serious damages to wildlife affecting their hearing, their ability to avoid predators, behavioural effects, etc.


3)   Which of the following zones are correctly matched with their permitted noise level?

1) Industrial --------- 90 dB
2) Commercial ----- 75 dB
3) Residential ------- Silence Zone
4) Courts ------------- 55 dB


a. Only 1 and 2
b. Only 2 and 3
c. Only 3
d. None of the above
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: None of the above

Explanation:
Noise Regulation Rules under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 regulate noise levels in industrial (75 dB), commercial (65 dB) and residential zones (55 dB). It also establishes zone of silence (100m) near schools, courts, hospitals, etc.