The correct answer is (b), methyl isocyanate.
Methyl isocyanate is a highly toxic chemical that was used in the production of pesticides at the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) plant in Bhopal, India. On December 2, 1984, a leak of methyl isocyanate from the plant killed an estimated 22,000 people and injured over 150,000 others. It is considered to be one of the worst industrial disasters in history.
Methyl isocyanate is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong, irritating odor. It is highly toxic and can cause death if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Symptoms of exposure to methyl isocyanate include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. In severe cases, exposure to methyl isocyanate can cause death.
The Bhopal gas tragedy was a preventable disaster. The plant had a history of safety problems, and the company had been warned about the dangers of methyl isocyanate. However, the company failed to take adequate safety measures, and the disaster was the result.
The Bhopal gas tragedy is a reminder of the dangers of industrial pollution and the importance of safety regulations. It is also a reminder of the human cost of corporate negligence.