Pollutants of automobile exhausts that affects nervous system/produces mental diseases in

Options

A. Mercury
B. Lead
C. Nitrogen dioxide
D. Sulphur dioxide

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Question**: The question asks for pollutants from automobile exhaust that affect the nervous system and can produce mental diseases.

2. **List Common Pollutants in Automobile Exhaust**: Common pollutants include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons, particulate matter, and lead (Pb).

3. **Focus on Lead (Pb)**: Among these pollutants, lead (Pb) is particularly known for its harmful effects on the nervous system. It is released into the environment primarily through the combustion of petrol that contains tetraethyl lead.

4. **Understand the Mechanism of Harm**: Lead affects the central nervous system by causing lead poisoning, which can lead to various neurological issues and mental diseases. It interferes with neurotransmitter release and can cause brain damage.

5. **Quantify the Effects**: Normal lead levels in the blood for an adult are around 25 mg per 100 ml. However, lead poisoning can increase this level to 70 mg per 100 ml, indicating severe toxicity.

6. **Conclude the Answer**: Therefore, the pollutant from automobile exhaust that affects the nervous system and can produce mental diseases is lead (Pb).

**Final Answer**: Lead (Pb) is the pollutant from automobile exhaust that affects the nervous system and can produce mental diseases.

---