“Biorock technology” is talked about in which one of the following situations?
- Restoration of damaged coral reefs
- Development of building materials using plant residues
- Identification of areas for exploration/extraction of shale gas
- Providing salt licks for wild animals in forests/ protected areas
Explanation
Option (a) is correct
- Biorock technology, also known as mineral accretion technology, is a method used for the restoration of damaged coral reefs. The technology involves the electroaccumulation of minerals dissolved in seawater on steel structures that are submerged on the sea bed and connected to a power source, typically solar panels.
- Here’s how the process works:
- A small electrical current is passed through electrodes in the water, creating a positively charged anode and a negatively charged cathode.
- Calcium ions combine with carbonate ions and adhere to the cathode, forming calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).
- Coral larvae naturally adhere to the calcium carbonate, allowing them to grow faster since they don’t have to expend energy on building their skeletons.
