UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Minamata disease was traced to industrial effluents containing methyl mercury, a highly toxic organic form of mercury. These compounds entered coastal waters, bioaccumulated in fish and shellfish and then biomagnified up the food chain to humans. People consuming contaminated seafood developed severe neurological symptoms, including loss of coordination and sensory disturbances. The disaster became a landmark case highlighting the dangers of toxic heavy metal pollution, particularly methyl mercury, in aquatic environments. Therefore, Option B is correct.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because arsenic poisoning is associated with other incidents and diseases, such as skin lesions and cancers in areas with arsenic-contaminated groundwater. It is not the agent linked with Minamata disease.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it specifies methyl mercury compounds, which are fat-soluble and easily bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms. This particular form of mercury was central to the Minamata tragedy and its health impacts.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because fluoride, while harmful in excess, does not produce the characteristic neurological symptoms seen in Minamata patients. Its effects are mostly on bones and teeth.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect as radioactive iodine is associated with nuclear accidents and thyroid problems, not with the specific industrial mercury pollution that caused Minamata disease.