E-waste and Environmental Contamination

Electronic waste from computers contains several hazardous heavy metals and toxic substances. Beryllium (in alloys and electronics), Cadmium (in batteries and circuit boards), Chromium (in steel), Mercury (in switches and displays), and Lead (in solder and glass) are all present in computer components and become environmental contaminants when disposed improperly. Heptachlor is a persistent organic pollutant (pesticide) that is not a typical component of electronic equipment. Plutonium is radioactive material not found in standard computers. The most common toxic e-waste components are the heavy metals: beryllium, cadmium, chromium, mercury, and lead. Option (b) correctly identifies these five substances while excluding heptachlor and plutonium, which are not typically associated with computer e-waste. > E-waste toxins: Heavy metals (Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb) are the primary contaminants — NOT pesticides or radioactive materials. Answer: (b).