Question:

Which of the following does NOT cause indoor air pollution?

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Three are real indoor pollutants; the odd one out is an anaesthetic gas, not the nitrogen oxide from gas stoves.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Carbon monoxide (CO)
  • Nitrous oxide
  • Radon
  • Mercury vapour
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Indoor air pollution refers to harmful agents present inside dwellings, mainly arising from combustion of biomass fuels, building materials, tobacco smoke and consumer products.
Step 2: Carbon monoxide is a classic indoor pollutant generated by incomplete combustion of cooking and heating fuels.
Step 3: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps indoors from soil and building stone and is a recognised cause of indoor air pollution and lung cancer.
Step 4: Mercury vapour can be released indoors from broken thermometers, fluorescent lamps and certain paints, making it an indoor pollutant.
Step 5: Nitrous oxide is not listed among the standard indoor air pollutants. The relevant oxide of nitrogen that pollutes indoor air is nitrogen dioxide from gas stoves, not nitrous oxide.
Conclusion: Nitrous oxide is the answer. The printed answer key (B. Nitrous oxide) is correct.
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