Which of the following is true about DMDM Hydantoin's environmental impact?

• A. It has no environmental impact.
• B. It contributes to ground-level ozone and smog.
• C. It only affects soil microbes but not air.
• D. It increases water oxygen levels.

Answer: (B)

DMDM Hydantoin releases formaldehyde, a volatile organic compound, when it breaks down. VOCs in the presence of sunlight and nitrogen oxides drive photochemical reactions that form ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. This makes its environmental impact primarily an issue of air quality, not confined to soil or increasing water oxygen levels. The idea that it has no impact, only affects soil microbes, or would raise water oxygen levels doesn’t fit with how VOCs like formaldehyde influence the atmosphere and air pollution.