IB ESS HL 2.2.18 Non Biodegradable Pollutants Questions
Explain persistence, bioaccumulation and biomagnification of non-biodegradable pollutants.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Course
- ESS HL
- Level
- HL
Exam points
- explain why PCB, DDT or mercury persist and accumulate as non-biodegradable pollutants
- distinguish bioaccumulation within an organism over time from biomagnification up a food chain
- interpret rising pollutant concentration by trophic level and explain risk to top carnivores
- explain how non-biodegradable pesticides affect a human food chain through trophic transfer
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IB ESS HL 2.2.18 Non Biodegradable Pollutants Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 4]
Outline two advantages and two disadvantages of using DDT.
Advantages:
a. Effectiveness in controlling insect-borne diseases;
b. DDT is relatively inexpensive to produce;
c. DDT has a long-lasting residual effect / provides continuous protection against insects for an extended period of time;
d. it is highly effective in controlling a wide range of insect pests...;
e. ...thus improving agricultural/livestock production
Disadvantages: [2max]
f. DDT is a persistent organic pollutant that can damage environment for years;
g. DDT undergoes bioaccumulation/biomagnification posing risks to higher trophic levels;
h. DDT has been linked to potential health risks in humans/wildlife (e.g. effects on reproductive health, hormone disruption, increased risk of certain cancers);
i. Insects can develop resistance to DDT, reducing its effectiveness as an insecticide;
j. Reducing food available for insectivores;
k. Impacts non-target (insect) species;
Note to examiners: Accept any other relevant example to those given.
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