FRQ APES

Describe TWO environmental drawbacks, not related to water use, of using the fracking process to extract natural gas from shale

- Earthquakes can result from the drilling/ fracking process - The drilling site increase the amount of particulate matter in the air

Nuclear power is an alternative to using natural gas or coal as a fuel for generating electricity. However, there are also problems associated with nuclear power plants. Describe TWO negative environmental impacts associated with nuclear power.

- Runoff into surface water during construction. - Thermal pollution from cooling operations (impacting surface water)

Identify and describe TWO water-related environmental problems associated with fracking

-Groundwater contamination is associated with fracking. Fracking liquids or chemicals can contaminate drinking water or groundwater. Drilling can allow methane to seep into groundwater. -Surface water contamination is also associated to fracking. Wastewater disposed of in streams and river may contain salts, heavy metals, and/or other components of fracking liquid.

Describe one economic benefit to society of using fracking to extract natural gas from shale

Creation of jobs

Natural gas is considered to be a better fossil fuel for the environment than coal is. Discuss TWO environmental benefits of using natural gas as a fuel compared to using coal.

Fewer SOx are produced, resulting in less acid rain. Less Hg is released.