Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
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Correct Answer: Option (C) — 1, 2 and 4
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference VerifiedStatement 1 is correct: Researchers using Carbon-14 are exposed to ionizing beta radiation, a mutagen capable of inducing DNA strand breaks and mutations.
Statement 2 is correct: X-ray technicians encounter ionizing electromagnetic radiation, which can cause chromosomal damage if shielding is inadequate.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Coal miners are prone to occupational respiratory diseases like anthracosilicosis (black lung disease) from dust inhalation rather than direct systemic mutagens causing pervasive cell DNA changes.
Statement 4 is correct: Dyers and painters regularly handle volatile organic solvents, aromatic amines, and lead-based chemical mutagens linked to elevated rates of DNA damage and bladder cancer.
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