Environmental Science OL HW Assignments

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What are biofuels, and why we cannot rely only on them

A biofuel is a fuel that is made for any living matter. We can't rely on these because like fossil fuels, we can use too much fuel and cause it to run out and kill off whatever the fuel is made from.

Microirrigation is a type of irrigation: a) in which pipes with tiny holes bored in them convey water directly to individual plants. b) in which water used in sinks and showers is used to irrigate fields. c) in which recycled wastewater is used to water crops. d) that uses captured rainwater to irrigate farm plots.

Monocultures ____________the number of agricultural pests found in any one area due to the _______________of the habitat. a) increase / uniformity b) decrease / uniformity c) decrease / complexity d) increase / complexity e) have no effect / hardiness

Most of the federally owned land in the United States is located in: a) Alaska and 11 western states. b) Alaska and the Rocky Mountain area. c) 11 western states and the Upper Midwest. d) Alaska and Texas. e) Alaska, Arizona, California, and Nevada.

Planting the same crop year after year: a) increases damage by insects and disease. b) decreases soil erosion. c) does not deplete essential nutrients from the soil. d) will slowly increase crop yields. e) is a new and innovative agricultural practice.

Concern over the routine use of antibiotics in raising livestock centers around: a) the potential that bacterial resistance to antibiotics may increase as a result. b) violations of U.S. government policy that prohibits their indiscriminate use in livestock. c) the fact that the antibiotics may be toxic to small children. d) a tentative link between antibiotics and cancer. e) the excessively high concentrations of chemicals that are then found in the meat products.

Which of the following statements about rangelands is true? a) Rangelands have native grasses with fibrous root systems that can survive extended periods of drought. b) Rangelands are valuable for food production but yield no other economically valuable resources. c) Rangelands can benefit from overgrazing by cattle since it may actually increase the plant diversity. d) Rangelands are found in temperate regions, but not in tropical climates. e) About 10% of the human population lives in rangelands that border deserts.

Which of the following statements regarding freshwater use is TRUE? a) It is increasing because, on average, each person is using more water. b) It is decreasing because, on average, agriculture is conserving more water. c) It is decreasing due to the decline in the global population growth rate. d) It is increasing due to improved technology and greater efficiency.

Which of the following transportation alternatives would achieve the greatest energy conservation at the end of one week? a) carpooling to work with 3 other people b) driving by yourself, but at lower than posted speeds c) driving by yourself in a smaller, more fuel-efficient car d) driving yourself using a low octane gas in the car e) driving yourself in a new hybrid car

Which type of subsistence farming involves short periods of cultivation followed by longer periods of fallow, during which the land reverts to forest? a) shifting cultivation b) intercropping c) nomadic herding d) polyculture

Comparing factors that influence changes in size of local versus global populations in the figure below - what additional factors besides births and deaths affect local population? a) A = immigration; B = emigration b) A = biotic potential; B = carrying capacity c) A = growth rate; B = dispersal d) A = infant mortality rate; B = fertility

a. A= immigration; B= emigration

Which of the following represents an idea associated with environmental sustainability? a) Many of the Earth's resources are present in finite supply and must be used wisely b) The human population can continue to grow c) Our choices in what technology to use do not affect environmental quality d) The capacity of the environment to absorb toxins is unlimited

a. many of the Earth's resources are present in finite supply and must be used wisely

17. In the field of economics, the additional cost associated with one more unit of something is called a(n) a) marginal cost. b) external cost. c) direct cost. d) fringe cost.

a. marginal cost

What does an ecological footprint measure? a) Natural resources used by each person in an area. b) Products bought and used by each person in an area. c) The amount of people that can live in a given area. d) The number of planet's worth of resources we have.

a. natural resources used by each person in an area

Given the data in the accompanying table, which of the chemicals is the most toxic? Chemical LD50 (mg/kg) administered orally to rats Nicotine -----2.0 Cocaine -----17.5 Heroin -------150.0 Caffeine ------200.0 Morphine -----500.0 a) nicotine b) heroin c) morphine d) caffeine

a. nicotine

What phenomenon is illustrated by the diagram shown below? a) bioaccumulation b) biomagnification c) persistence d) acute toxicity

b. biomagnification

A carcinogen is a: a) type of microorganism associated with human sewage. b) cancer-causing chemical, radiation, or virus. c) vehicle that requires no gasoline to operate. d) phytochemical (a protective plant compound that promotes health).

b. cancer-causing chemical, radiation, or virus

Based on a 2008 ruling by the US Supreme Court, the pollutant that the US EPA must now regulate under the Clean Air Act is: a) carbon monoxide b) carbon dioxide c) CFCs d) ozone

b. carbon dioxide

Which of the following does not contribute to ozone depletion? a) Carbon tetrachloride used as an industrial solvent. b) Carbon dioxide used as a dry cleaning solvent c) Halons used as fire retardants. d) Methyl bromide used as a pesticide.

b. carbon dioxide used as a dry cleaning solvent

What is the BEST definition of conservation? a) Setting aside land and natural resources. b) Careful management of land and resources. c) Using land and natural resources based on current needs. d) Protecting land and natural resources from human activity.

b. careful management of land and resources

Which of the following greenhouse gases has no natural source? a) carbon dioxide b) chlorofluorocarbons c) nitrous oxide d) methane

b. chlorofluorocarbons

Why is it inadequate to rely solely on science to solve environmental problems? a) Science can't prove anything so it cannot be used to solve problems. b) Science can only inform decisions, but ethics are necessary to help us decide what we ought to do. c) The statement is incorrect - science is the only discipline necessary to solve environmental problems. d) Politics and economics are the real tools used to solve environmental problems.

b. science can only inform decisions, but ethics are necessary to help us decide what we ought to do

Ozone in the ____ is essential as it protects the Earth's surface form UV radiation but ozone in the ______ is a human-made air pollutant that contributes to global warming. a) troposphere; stratosphere b) stratosphere; troposphere c) troposphere; thermosphere d) mesosphere; stratosphere

b. stratosphere; troposphere

What can be interpreted from the graph below? a) Mexican-Americans, who make up a disproportionate fraction of agricultural workers in the United States, are at higher risk from pesticides than are other groups. b) The DDT blood level for Mexican-Americans is much higher than the rest of the population. c) Mexican-Americans are genetically pre-disposed to accumulate DDT in their blood.. d) Mexican-Americans are at a higher risk of developing cancer.

b. the DDT blood level for Mexican-Americans is much higher than the rest of the population

Part of the reason air quality was so poor in Chattanooga, Tennessee in the 1960s was that a) there was a much higher concentration of cars than in other cities. b) the city is surrounded by mountains that kept pollutants from dispersing. c) the city is in close proximity to coal mining operations. d) there was a greater amount of pollutants due to the city's chemical and oil refineries.

b. the city is surrounded by mountains that kept pollutants from dispersing

What term or phrase do population ecologists use to describe the maximum number of individuals of a given species that a particular environment can support for an indefinite period, assuming there are no changes in the environment? a) Environmental resistance b) Intrinsic rate of increase c) Carrying capacity d) Sustainability

c. carrying capacity

Per person energy consumption in highly developed nations is a) increasing as oil prices continue to climb. b) increasing as alternative energies are introduced into the mainstream. c) decreasing as technological advances increase the energy efficiency. d) decreasing as population levels rise. e) remaining steady over time, because of immigration

c. decreasing as technological advances increase the energy efficiency

What accounts for the highest percentage of the world's total water consumption? a) Industry b) Domestic and municipal use c) Recycling d) Irrigation

Which of the following is not an alternative to pesticides? a) pheromones b) quarantine c) biological controls d) ddt e) strip cropping 29. Which of the following would eliminate mold, mildew or mushrooms in a given area? a) Rodenticide b) Insecticide c) Herbicide d) Fungicide e) Abioticide

The thermosphere is: 1. the layer of atmosphere closest to the Earth's surface where weather occurs. 2. supports long distance communication because it reflects outgoing radio waves back to Earth without the use of satellites. 3. the layer where auroras form when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gas molecules releasing energy visible as light of different colors a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 2 and 3

d. 2 and 3

Which of the following action(s) may unintentionally contribute to outbreaks and rapid spread of infectious disease? a) global travel b) social and economic factors c) disruption of natural environments d) all of these choices

d. all of these choices

The figure below is of a new innovation in electricity generation from coal. If this technology works as indicated in the figure, we could accomplish the following: a) Acid rain would be reduced as sulfur from coal is removed prior to combustion. b) Carbon management would be accomplished as carbon dioxide would be separated and sequestered. c) The main waste products released from coal combustion would be water vapor. d) All of these choices would be accomplished.

d. all of these choices would be accomplished

Recommendations for achieving sustainable living include: a) Eliminate poverty. b) Design sustainable cities. c) Provide adequate food for all people. d) All these are recommendations for sustainable living.

d. all of these recommendations for sustainable living

An organism exposed to a chemically stable pesticide that takes years to break down may accumulate high concentrations of the toxin, a phenomenon known as: a) biological magnification b) bioaccumulation c) genetic resistance d) none of these

Mercury: a) does not occur naturally in the environment, but is a pollutant produced by exclusively human activities. b) is a persistent toxic compound. c) emissions are generated exclusively by municipal and medical waste incinerators. d) emissions are strictly regulated by the electrostatic precipitator.

Soil is formed from parent material by biological, chemical, and physical: a) digestion processes. b) weathering processes. c) composting. d) terracing. e) leaching.

The average adult human should consume enough food to get approximately how many calories per day? a) 2000 kilocalories b) 2600 kilocalories c) 1500 kilocalories d) 2500 kilocalories for males, 2000 kilocalories for females e) 2300 kilocalories for males, 1800 kilocalories for females

The disadvantages of using wind energy to generate electricity include all of the following except a) windmills kill birds. b) generation of sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. c) degradation of an area's scenic beauty. d) tying up large parcels of land. e) distance to urban centers where electricity is most needed.

What is the Superfund National Priorities List? a) the federal inventory of green chemistry locations *b) the existing hazardous waste sites that pose the greatest threat to public health c) federally approved locations for the long-term storage of toxic chemicals d) current policy on how to handle chemical accidents e) a list of bodies of water in the U.S. that have not been polluted

What is the basis for water's high melting / freezing point? a) Water molecules have a non-polar structure. b) It forms hydrogen bonds between adjacent molecules. c) Water molecules can form ionic bonds. d) Because it is a positive ion.

What is the major difference between industrialized agriculture and subsistence agriculture? a) Industrialized agriculture depends on labor and a large amount of land to produce enough food to feed oneself and one's family. b) Industrialized agriculture uses modern agricultural methods and subsistence agriculture uses traditional agricultural methods. c) Industrialized agriculture uses traditional agricultural methods and subsistence agriculture uses modern agricultural methods. d) There is no difference; the terms are the same.

What is the relationship of overgrazing to desertification? a) Overgrazing is the destruction of vegetation; desertification is the destruction of a desert ecosystem b) Overgrazing results in barren exposed soil; if erosion continues, it contributes to desertification c) Overgrazing is brought about by cattle; desertification is brought about by temperature d) Overgrazing is caused by too fertile rangeland; desertification is caused by too fertile agricultural land e) Overgrazing is a synonym for desertification

Which of the following is not an important mineral? a) sulfur b) nitrogen c) iron d) aluminum e) mercury

Which of the following statements associated with poverty is CORRECT? I) Poverty is defined as having a per person income of less than $2 per day, expressed in U.S. dollars adjusted for purchasing power. II) The number of people living in poverty has been steadily declining and today less than one billion people live in poverty worldwide. III) Poverty is a condition in which people are unable to meet their basic needs for food, clothing, shelter, education, or health. a) I only b) II only c) III only d) Both I and III apply as descriptions of poverty.

d. both I and II apply as descriptions of poverty

This image of North America represents: I) A satellite view of the continent taken during the day to highlight areas of bright sunlight. II) The areas in yellow represent major metropolitan areas. III) The areas in yellow represent major human population centers. a) I only b) II only c) III only d) Both II and III can be interpreted from the image.

d. both II and III can be interpreted from the image

According to the demographic transition model, an improving economy in a country is generally correlated with which of the following? a) Increased birth rate and increased population growth rate b) Increased death rate and decreased population growth rate c) Decreased birth rate and increased population growth rate d) Decreased birth rate and decreased population growth rate

d. decreased birth rate and decreased population growth rate

Having a bottle of Freon cost a consumer $2,000 to pay for the damage it does to the ozone layer when it is eventually released into the environment is an example of adding in a) emission charges. b) environmental impact statements. c) marginal costs. d) external costs.

d. external costs

Wildlife corridors are intended to provide: a) further habitat fragmentation. b) increased species richness within forest monocultures. c) a means for controlling insect pests and invasive species. d) increased timber production. e) allow migration so animals can interbreed.

What's a fuel cell, and how does it work

A fuel cell is a cell that is producing an electrical current. It produces one by a chemical reaction. They use oxygen and hydrogen and an exchange of protons happen to create energy.

What vaccination does for you?

A vaccination is beneficial to me because it can be the only way to fight a virus depending on how fast the cells produce. The doctor gives a patient a low amount of the virus and the body generates antibodies ahead of time, in case I were to get a certain virus. When I was younger I had the Chicken Pox Vaccine and when I got the Chicken Pox in 2nd grade, I only had the Chicken Pox for a week. My younger sister was only 6 months old and wasn't old enough to have the vaccine yet, got the Chicken Pox from me, and had it for almost two and a half weeks. It was helpful for me to have the vaccine because my body was able to fight off the Chicken Pox easier than my sister Sophie.

Describe the difference between bacteria and viruses

Bacteria is a member of a large group of unicellular microorganisms that have cell walls. Bacteria however, lacks organelles and an organized nucleus, including some that can cause disease. Antibiotics can be used by a patient to kill off bacteria. A virus is a nonliving, extremely complex molecule, that is capable of growing and multiplying on living cells. They can cause various important diseases in humans, animals, and plants. Organisms can fight against viruses by creating antibodies that would kill them off.

Compare and contrast bioaccumulation and biological magnification.

Bioaccumulation is the buildup of a persistent toxicant in an organism. Biological magnification is the increase in toxicant concentrations as a toxicant passes through successive levels of the food chain. Bioaccumulation is different than biological magnification because it only occurs in one organism. When biological magnification occurs, it is happening in different organisms because it passes onto another body during the food chain. Bioaccumulation occurs at that second, while biological magnification takes a little bit to happen. Bioaccumulation and biological magnification are the same because both types occur in an organism.

Every gallon of gasoline your car or truck burns releases about 20 lb of CO2 into the atmosphere. Two cars are making a trip of 100 miles. The first car (a SUV) gets 20 miles per gallon and the second car (a hybrid) gets 50 miles per gallon. Approximately how much less CO2 will be produced by the hybrid car on this trip? Include your calculations in the answer.

Car 1 (Suv): 100/20 = 5 gallons of gas 5 gallons X 20 lbs = 100 lbs. of CO2 Car 2 (Hybrid): 100/50 = 2 gallons of gas 2 gallons X 20 lbs. = 40 lbs. of Co2 You would use 60 lbs. less CO2 on the trip if you had the hybrid vehicle.

Explain how energy conservation and efficiency are major "sources" of energy

Conservation and efficiency of energy is a major source because it allows there to be more energy available for use and causes there to be more energy saved later. If people conserve energy they will be able to produce less because there will less demanded resulting in less pollution and causing less energy needed to make energy.

Define energy, power, and kilowatt-hour (kWh). Energy is the power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to work machines. The definition of power is energy that is produced by mechanical, electrical, or other means and used to operate a device. Kilowatt-hour is a unit of energy equivalent to one kilowatt of power expended for one hour of time. Kilowatt-hour is commonly used in electrical applications.

Energy is the power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to work machines. The definition of power is energy that is produced by mechanical, electrical, or other means and used to operate a device. Kilowatt-hour is a unit of energy equivalent to one kilowatt of power expended for one hour of time. Kilowatt-hour is commonly used in electrical applications.

How does energy consumption in the United States compare to that in other countries?

In Figure 17.1, referred to as Energy Consumption, the United States is second, behind Canada. Highly developed countries use more energy today but the rate is decreasing due to the new technology of efficient products. These countries include Japan and Sweden. The book then talks about how Canada and the United States are also developed countries but they have inexpensive energy that is abundant. This causes Canada and United States to use more energy to achieve the same standard of living experienced in other countries.

Why is it impossible to precisely determine the Earth's carrying capacity for the human population?

It is impossible to precisely determining the Earth's carrying capacity for the human population. The carrying capacity is the largest population a particular environment can support sustainably, if there are no changes in that environment. There is no way to determine the exact number of resources that are left on the planet since organisms have been on this planet for a long time. There is no way to determine the official carrying capacity for the entire human population.

Compare and contrast LD50 and ED50. How are these values used to evaluate and/or regulate chemical pollutants?

Lethal doses vary on the organism's weight, age, sex, metabolism, and health. Children have a lower lethal dose than adults because they have a lower weight. Lethal Dose at 50 percent can also be identified as LD50. LD50 is expressed in milligrams of toxicant per kilogram of body weight. LD50 has an inverse relationship with the acute toxicity of a chemical. The smaller the LD50, the more toxic the chemical, and opposite. LD50 can be a way of estimating synthetic chemical's toxic potential. The effective dose-50 percent can also be identified as ED50. ED50 measures a wide range of biological responses. One example of this is the stunted development in the offspring of a pregnant animal, reduced enzyme activity, or onset of hair loss. ED50 works when a dose causes 50% of a population to exhibit whatever response is being studied.

Why is natural gas considered to be a superior fuel to either coal or oil?

Natural gas is considered a superior fuel to coal and oil because it is efficient when fueling residential and commercial air-cooling systems. It also only contains a few hydrocarbons compared to oil. Natural gas also offers significant environmental advantages over gasoline or diesel.

Explain active and passive solar energy

Passive solar energy is when people would use the sun in the most basic form. They would use it to dry clothes and heat their house. Active energy is when people use the sun along with technology to create energy. They can charge batteries and other products.

How do photovoltaic cells work

Photovoltaic solar cells convert sunlight directly into electricity. They can be used to power small devices like wrist watches. To generate energy to power a building or supply electricity for industrial or commercial uses, PV cells are arranged on large panels that absorb sunlight even on cloudy or rainy days.

Briefly explain what a dose-response curve is and how it is applied in determining the health effects of environmental pollutants

The dose-response curve is a graph that shows the effects of different doses on the population of test organisms. The graph applies to us because it shows how toxic a dose really is. Some dosages can be ED50, while others can be tested and concluded to be LD50.

What middle class means?

The middle class is the social group between the upper and working class. It includes professional and business workers and their families. It is a way to categorize people based on how much money people make. Most of the United States population is classified as 'middle class'.

Using the equation for growth population: Nend = Nstart *(1+r) Where: r is the growth rate of the population per year, expressed as a decimal (example 0.240 when the rate is 240 per 1000 beings Nstart is the population at the beginning of the period (year) Nend is the population at the end of the period (year) Calculate the population size after 4 years: Time step Nstart 1+r Nend 0 100 1.24 124 1 124 1.24 154 2 154 1.24 191 3 4

There is a total population size of 294 at the end of four years.

A serious under-consumption of calories that leaves the body weakened and susceptible to disease is referred to as a) undernutrition b) malnutrition c) overnutrition d) food insecurity

All of the following are challenges that face the application of fuel cell technology for motor vehicles except a) the size and weight of the fuel cell is prohibitive for use in automobiles. b) fuel cells are expensive. c) hydrogen is extremely volatile so safety issues must be addressed. d) infrastructure for refueling is not in place. e) danger of violent explosions.

All of the following are problems associated with sanitary landfills except *a) large quantities of potentially toxic fly ash. b) landfills fill up too quickly so it is not a long-term solution to waste disposal. c) leachate seeps through lining of landfills and contaminates groundwater. d) methane gas accumulations create the possibility of explosions. e) toxic chemicals such as heavy metals and pesticides are found in the leachate.

Any inherited characteristic that decreases the effect of a pesticide on a pest is known as: a) genetic resistance. b) biological amplification. c) resistance management. d) bioaccumulation. e) persistence.

Aquaculture is: a) fish farming. b) growing plants without soil. c) using desalinated water for irrigation. d) a type of germplasm storage. e) fishing without hooks.

Based on the information in the table below, processing of which mineral generates the greatest total waste in million tons? Mineral Mined Ore (Million Tons) Percent of ore that becomes waste during refining Iron 25,503 60 Copper 11,026 99 Gold 7,235 99.99 Lead 1,077 97.5 Aluminum 856 70 a) iron b) copper c) gold d) lead e) aluminum

Electric meters can run backward for homeowners participating in net metering. What does this mean? a) homeowners receive meter credit for excess energy they generate and supply to the utility's power grid b) the up front costs for installing renewable energy is recovered by rewinding the home's electric meter c) if a homeowner uses less energy in one month than the previous month, then the difference is subtracted from the electric meter d) homeowners who voluntarily cut back on air conditioning use are granted a electric credit e) a radio controlled electric meter for remote monitoring allows the utility company to stop the meter during peak demand periods

The National Appliance Energy Conservation Act a) sets national energy efficiency standards for refrigerators, washing machines, ovens and other appliances. b) mandates the recycling of "waste" heat in all domestic devices such as refrigerators, freezers, and microwaves. c) offers rebates to homeowners who install renewable energy sources such as solar panels in their homes. d) changes the regulations that govern electric utilities allowing these companies to make more money by generating less electricity. e) provides for infrastructure improvement of electric grids to recover 10 percent of electricity lost during transmission.

The area shown here is an example of a) clear cutting b) contour farming c) monoculture d) selective cutting

The composting process is the *a) conversion of organic waste into soil conditioners or mulch. b) redesign of chemical processes to reduce environmental harm. c) recycling of hazardous materials into gardening resources. d) combustion of chlorine compounds into nontoxic gases. e) disposal of solid waste generated by industry and mining.

The magma that rises to the surface comes from which of the layers of the Earth shown here? a) asthenosphere b) lithosphere c) lower mantle d) outer core

The manipulation of genes to produce a particular trait is called what? a) genetic engineering b) sustainable agriculture c) the green revolution d) organic agriculture

The ocean currents illustrated here are a) called gyres. b) called trade winds c) caused by the movement of water from the poles to the equator. d) part of the ocean conveyor belt.

The region with highest demand for additional water to support human activities and habitation is/are: a) arid and semiarid areas. b) flood plains. c) wetlands. d) coastal areas.

The scale typically used by seismologists to measure the magnitude of an earthquake is the: a) Richter scale. b) subduction scale. c) earthquake scale. d) moment e) seismologist's earth movement indicator scale.

The steps in purification of drinking water are: a) settling of suspended solids --- filtration - disinfection b) primary treatment --- secondary treatment --- disinfection c) filtration --- coagulation --- distribution d) chlorination --- secondary sedimentation --- tertiary treatment

The volume of solid waste generated can be dramatically decreased through *a) source reduction. b) sanitary landfills. c) incineration. d) leachate treatment. e) the Superfund Act.

Today's solid waste contains more ________than in the past, whereas the amounts of glass and steel have declined. *a) paper and plastics b) food wastes c) yard wastes d) copper and aluminum e) rubber and wood

Topsoil is lost annually (soil erosion), primarily due to: a) poor agricultural practices. b) global warming. c) ozone depletion. d) the soil rustler's black market. e) conservation tillage.

What do the dashed lines shown in the diagram below illustrate? a) Hydrogen bonding b) The polarity of water c) The chemical formula of water d) The physical properties of water e) Oxygen bonding

What does the DARK BLUE are on the map illustrate? a) Areas of the Ogallala Aquifer that contain the deepest water. b) Areas of the Ogallala Aquifer that have had most of the water removed. c) Areas of the Ogallala Aquifer that have run dry. d) Areas of the Ogallala Aquifer with high saltwater intrusion.

What is the MOST serious water related issue for people in developing countries? a) Insufficient access to clean water to meet basic drinking and household needs. b) Salinization from too much irrigation. c) High municipal consumption and waste of water. d) Eutrophication of lakes.

What is the difference between a rock and an ore? a) rocks have varied chemical composition; ores contain a large concentration of a particular mineral. b) rocks contain only nonmetallic minerals; ores contain only metallic minerals. c) rocks are easily accessible and always non-profitable to extract; ores are inaccessible and always profitable to extract. d) rocks are not good conductors of heat and electricity; ores are good conductors of heat and electricity. e) rocks are only formed through sedimentation; ores are only formed through hydrothermal processes.

What is the fuel that is used to power a fuel cell? a) direct solar input b) propane c) oxygen d) uranium e) hydrogen

What percentage of global water is available as freshwater for use by terrestrial organisms? a) less 3% b) about 10% c) about 40% d) about 60%

What type of solar system, illustrated below, is supplying 10% of Georgetown University's electricity? a) Photovoltaic cell system b) Passive solar heating system c) Forced air re-circulating system d) Nonrenewable radiant energy system e) Biomass conversion solar system

Whereas the energy from some renewable sources come from physical processes (moving wind or water), the energy from biomass ultimately comes from a) the sun's radiant energy driving photosynthesis. b) a nonrenewable energy source. c) fossil fuels. d) man made chemicals. e) nuclear reactions.

Which of the following is MOST LIKELY to be considered a point source of water pollution? a) A paper mill on the Mississippi River. b) A golf course on Lake Mead. c) An irrigated farm along the Colorado River. d) Acid mine drainage into the Rio Grande River.

Which of the following is an example of composting? *a) creating mulch from yard wastes and food scraps b) using animal dung as a fuel source c) recycling steel to replace dependence on iron ore d) purchasing products that have less packaging e) using less toxic materials to build products

Which of the following is more efficient (90%) than any other energy source for producing electricity? a) hydropower b) wind energy c) photovoltaic d) passive solar e) geothermal

Which of the following is not an environmental impact of mining? a) enrichment of waterways b) groundwater depletion c) erosion d) acid mine drainage e) air pollution

Which of the following is not an environmental problem associated with industrial agriculture? a) release of antioxidants b) soil erosion c) depletion of freshwater resources d) disposal of livestock wastes e) habitat fragmentation

Why are urban areas more likely to flood after heavy precipitation than undeveloped areas? a) Buildings and paved roads don't absorb water, so run off is significantly greater in developed areas b) Precipitation is usually greater in urbanized areas than in natural areas due to heat islands. c) Urbanized areas are almost always built on floodplains and hence are more prone to flooding. d) Most urban areas don't have adequate sewer systems to handle the rain.

Why is thermal pollution a problem for fish? a) It reduces the amount of oxygen the water can hold which results in fish kills. b) Warm water increases the spread of infectious disease to fish. c) It greatly increases sedimentation rates and the silt and sand clogs fish gills. d) The heated water kills fish.

All of the following are health issues resulting from exposure to the Chernobyl fallout except a) abnormally large birth weights of newborns. b) increased incidences of leukemia. c) increased incidences of thyroid cancer. d) abnormalities of the immune system. e) greater frequency of birth defects.

All of the following are products of petroleum refining except _______. a) ethanol b) jet fuel c) heating oil d) asphalt e) lead free gasoline

In the year 2030, it is projected that a) developing countries will consume twice as much energy as highly developed countries. b) developing countries will consume half of the energy as highly developed countries. c) developing countries' energy consumption will decrease slightly. d) highly developed countries' energy consumption will increase slightly. e) developing countries will consume the same amount of energy as highly developed countries.

More than half of the world's total estimated oil and natural gas reserves are located in _______. a) the Persian Gulf region b) the Siberia region c) South America d) Central America e) the Gulf of Mexico

The greatest hurdle that must be overcome to fully embrace nuclear power to generate electricity is a) safe storage of radioactive waste. b) monitoring low-level radiation continuously being released into the surrounding region. c) filtering the release of CO2 contributing to greenhouse gasses. d) deactivating radioactive water flushed from cooling towers. e) increased safety measures to decrease the potential for nuclear explosion releasing radiation into the atmosphere.

What is acid mine drainage? a) pollution caused when rainwater seeps through iron sulfide minerals exposed in mine wastes b) photochemical reactions between particulates and water vapor c) residue from sulfur and nitrogen compounds found in coal dust d) acid precipitation caused by emissions from burning coal e) a low pH fuel that is synthesized from natural gas

What can be interpreted from the following graph? 1. The graph shows that the Earth's surface temperatures do naturally fluctuate. 2. The graph shows that there has been a warming trend in the last several decades. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 1&2only d) None of these choices

a. 1 and 2 only

The figure reflects the differences in how sunlight strikes the Earth at different places. Which of the statements below can be inferred from this diagram? 1. Desk lamp A represents the vertical angle of the sun at the equator showing that sunlight is more concentrated here. 2. Desk lamp B represents the oblique angle of the sun at the equator showing that there is a larger area over which the sun shines. 3. Desk lamps A and B represent the possible different angles of the sun striking the northern hemisphere in the summer depending on how the Earth's axis tilts - A means a hotter summer, B means a cooler one. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 1& 2 only

a. 1 only

You want to buy a new refrigerator, There are 2 options: A) it costs $550, and uses the power of 1.7 kW B) it costs $720, and uses the power of 1.2 kW. Assuming that is plugged 24 hours a day, 7 days/week, and the cost of electric energy is $0.15 per kWh, in how many hours you will recover the cost difference, if you buy refrigerator B? How many days?

a. 1.7 X 0.15 = 0.255 ( 0.255 X 24 hrs. ) X 7 days = $42.82 per week b. 1.2 X 0.15 = 0.18 (0.18 X 24 hrs. ) X 7 days = $30.24 -It will take 14 weeks before the cost of refrigerator A will be higher than refrigerator B

Find in the notes what is the daily consumption of oil, in United States (2007). Use as the population of US being 330 million. Assume that from crude oil you get 40% gasoline. a) Calculate how much (gallons) gasoline per person is used in US. b) Do you use that much? If not, where the rest goes?

a. 2,069,800 X 0.4 = 8279200 8279200 X 330,000,000 = 0.0251 per person per day b. For me it is hard to say because I am not driving every single day. During the summer time, yes I would agree with the calculation because I have to drive back and forth to work and to other miscellaneous places. However, during the school year, I live on campus so I rarely and driving anywhere not during golf season. During golf season, I have to drive to the course or the driving range and again I would agree with the statement because I am driving to and from practice at least five days out of the week.

What effect of pesticides on birds can be interpreted from the graph below:? a) DDE (a breakdown product of DDT) residue in bird eggs has a negative correlation with reproductive success - when DDE residues are high the number of young per breeding season was low. b) Even though DDT was banned in 1972, reproductive success of birds has yet to improve. c) The graph provides evidence of how DDT bioaccumulates and biomagnifies in birds. d) DDT causes acute toxicity in birds.

a. DDE (a breakdown product of DDT) residue in bird eggs has a negative correlation with reproductive success- when DDE residues are high the number of young per breeding season was low

Why are public water supplies monitored for fecal coliform bacteria despite the fact that most strains of E. coli do not cause disease? a) E. coli is the best indicator of sewage-contaminated water because it doesn't appear in the environment except from human and animal feces. b) The fecal coliform test is the least expensive, though not most accurate, way to test for sewage contamination. c) Contrary to what is generally accepted, E.coli is in fact a deadly disease causing pathogen. d) E.coli is the only bacteria in our water supply that we know how to test for.

a. E. coli is the best indicator of sewage-contaminated water because it doesn't appear in the environment except from human and animal feces

Stratospheric ozone is important because it: a) absorbs UV radiation. b) is what we breathe. c) powers the weather cycle. d) supports long distance communication.

a. absorbs UV radiation

Currently, toxicologists use to assign risk to mixtures of chemicals in risk assessment studies. a) additivity b) synergy c) antagonism d) Persistence

a. additivity

An analysis of air pollutants in an urban area resulted in the detection of NO2, SO2, CO, and particulates. How are all these chemicals related? a) All of them are classified as primary pollutants. b) All of them are classified as secondary pollutants. c) All of them contribute to acid precipitation. d) All are components of photochemical smog.

a. all of them are classified as primary pollutants

What is E. coli? a) bacteria b) virus c) protozoa d) parasitic worm

a. bacteria

What happens during a pre-industrial stage (1) of the demographic transition? a) Birth and death rates are high. b) The death rate is low. c) Only very light industrialization. d) The birth rate is low.

a. birth and death rates are high

Which of the following activities is responsible for the largest percentage of human-made carbon dioxide emissions? a) burning fossil fuels b) deforestation c) ozone depletion d) acid deposition e) agriculture

a. burning fossil fuels

Which of the following BEST illustrates a primary air pollutant? a) Carbon dioxide released from the burning of coal. b) Sulfur trioxide produced when sulfur dioxide reacts with oxygen in the air. c) Ozone produced in photochemical smog. d) Carbon dioxide released through photosynthesis.

a. carbon dioxide released from the burning of coal

How do demographers typically measure mortality (death) rate? a) deaths per 1000 persons per year. b) deaths per person per year. c) the number of children who die per year. d) the total number of deaths per generation.

a. deaths per 1000 persons per year

The applied branch of sociology that deals with population statistics is: a) Demography b) Population ecology c) Demographic transition d) Population cartogram

a. demography

Despite the increasing percentage of newer automobile models on the road, air quality has not improved in some areas of the United States because: a) even though NOx emissions from each vehicle have been reduced, there are many more automobiles on the road now. b) even though there are fewer cars on the road today, more NOx is released due to increased burning of coal. c) these gases are actually present in the atmosphere and cannot be reduced further. d) we have no means to control the output of NOx.

a. even though NOx emissions from each vehicle have been reduced, there are many more automobiles on the road now

Risk assessment involves all of the following EXCEPT: a) financial costs of the predicted risk. b) identification of the hazard. c) dose-response assessment. d) assessment of the exposure

a. financial costs of the predicted risk

Why is air pollution an increasing problem in developing countries? a) In the desire to industrialize rapidly, less expensive but outdated, more polluting technologies are being adopted. b) The global distillation effect brings more pollutants into developing countries than they produce locally. c) Most people in developing countries now own two cars exacerbating urban heat islands and dust domes. d) Developing countries are located in areas that tend to suffer from thermal inversions.

a. in the desire to industrialize rapidly, less expensive bout outdated, more polluting technologies are being adopted

Hazardous air pollutants: a) include such pollutants as lead, formaldehyde, and chlorine b) are less harmful to people who live and work around facilities that produce them routinely wear protective gear c) are not regulated as the Clean Air Act does not have any provisions for doing so d) are only found in small concentrations in areas far from where they are released due to the global distillation effect

a. include such pollutants as lead, formaldehyde, and chlorine

Which of the following statements BEST describes emerging diseases like swine flu? a) Infectious diseases that were not previously found in humans and typically jump from an animal host to humans. b) Infectious diseases that existed in the past but for a variety of reasons are increasing in incidence. c) Infectious diseases that were previously found in humans and typically jump from a human host to animals. d) Non-infectious diseases that have transformed into infectious diseases

a. infectious diseases that were not previously found in humans and typically jump from an animal host to humans

Which of the following statements about malaria is FALSE: a) It is a non-transmittable disease caused by synthetic chemicals. b) Road clearing in the Amazon has disrupted the natural environment and created habitat for the mosquito larvae to thrive. c) Mosquitoes do not cause malaria but are the agents of transmission of the disease. d) It is an infectious disease caused by a protozoan parasite.

a. it is a non-transmittable disease caused by synthetic chemicals

Even though the data linking climate change to disease outbreak is still circumstantial, diseases such as are predicted to increase due to changes associated with global warming. a) malaria b) cancer c) polio d) AIDS

a. malaria

Which of the following greenhouse gases is released from the intestinal tracts of cattle? a) methane b) nitrous oxide c) tropospheric ozone d) CFCs

a. methane

Moderation or postponement of global climate change through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions is called: a) mitigation b) sequesteration c) adaptation d) insulation

a. mitigation

Which of the following is not an effect of acid deposition? a) mutations and skin cancer b) decreased hatching success in some birds c) forest decline d) destruction of monuments and buildings

a. mutations and skin cancer

A chemical substance that is extremely stable and takes years to break down into a less toxic form would be considered to be: a) Persistent b) bioaccumulating c) chronic d) biomagnified

a. persistent

The graph below shows atmospheric concentration of CO2 as recorded at the Mauna Loa Observatory. From the graph we can see that there are seasonal fluctuations in CO2 concentrations that correspond with: a) Plants taking up more carbon dioxide in the growing season. b) Temperatures fluctuating between day and night. c) Plants releasing more carbon dioxide in the growing season. d) Cattle producing more methane in the summer when they are grazing.

a. plants taking up more carbon dioxide in the growing season

What happens to human population during a demographic transition? a) Population switches from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates. b) Population switches from high to low birth rates and low to high death rates. c) Population switches from low to high birth rates and high to low death rates. d) Population changes from a majority of young people to a majority of elderly people.

a. population switches from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates

Of the various factors that determine an area's overall climate, the two most important are: a) precipitation and temperature b) distance from the sea and types of vegetation c) latitude and altitude d) wind speed and cloud cover

a. precipitation and temperature

In the figure below the yellow arrows show _____ which in part depend on differences in ____. a) prevailing winds; air pressure. b) upwellings; the tilt of the earth. c) the Coriolis effect; relative humidity. d) wind; cloud cover. e) turbulent gusts; distance from the equator.

a. prevailing winds; air pressure

Smaller cars, removal of sulfur from coal, and cooler combustion temperatures are examples of ways to: a) reduce the total amount of pollutants produced. b) reduce total amounts of pollutants after they are produced. c) conserve energy. d) reduce CFC production.

a. reduce the total amount of pollutants produced

Which of the following statements about sick building syndrome is TRUE? a) Sick building syndrome is linked to nausea, headaches, depression, and fatigue. b) Sick building syndrome has been linked to lung cancer, more so than cigarette smoke. c) Sick building syndrome contributes to increased blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. d) Sick building syndrome has been linked to greater worker productivity.

a. sick building syndrome is linked to nausea, headaches, depression, and fatigue

What type of cancer is expected to increase due to ozone depletion in the upper atmosphere? a) skin b) liver c) brain d) lung

a. skin

Which of the following air pollutants is correctly paired with one of its major effects? a) sulfur oxides — acid precipitation b) carbon oxides — corrosion of metal c) hydrocarbons — reduced visibility d) nitrogen oxides — blocks UV radiation

a. sulfur oxides - acid precipitation

Which of the following statements about human population growth and the Earth's carrying capacity for humans is TRUE? a) The Earth's carrying capacity for humans is hard to estimate and depends on assumptions made about standard of living, resource consumption, technological innovations, and waste generation. b) Most published estimates suggest that the Earth's carrying for humans are unlimited thus human populations can grow indefinitely. c) Environmental constraints determine the Earth's carrying capacity for humans. Human choices and values need not be factored into the assessment. d) The higher the standard of living, the more people the Earth can support as people with a high standard of living have more money to spend on green technology that reduces environmental impact.

a. the Earth's carrying capacity for humans is hard to estimate and depends on assumptions made about standard of living, resource consumption, technological innovations, and waste generation

Which of the following statements about children and chemical exposure is true? a) Children are slightly less susceptible to chemicals than adults. b) The LD50 values are lower for children than adults. c) LD50 is determined for particular chemicals, independent of age and other variables. d) The ED50 for children is no different from that of adults.

a. the LD50 values are lower for children than adults

Look at the different emission levels in the bar graph below. What BEST accounts for these differences in emissions? a) The Clean Air Act of 1970 along with the updates and amendments of 1977 and 1990 b) The use of electrostatic precipitators in coal burning power plants c) The development of "superclean" cars that do not emit any nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. d) The use of lead free and cleaner-burning gasoline.

a. the clean air act of 1970 along with the updates and amendments of 1977 and 1990

In Sri Lanka, the average age at marriage is 25, and the average number of children born per woman is 2.0. In Bangladesh, the average age at marriage is 17, and the average number of children born per woman is 3.0. Which of the following conclusions is supported by these data? a) The earlier a woman marries, the more children she is likely to have b) The more highly educated the woman, the less children she is likely to have c) The doubling time of the Bangladesh population is 58 years at its current rate of natural increase d) The earlier a woman marries, the less children she is likely to have

a. the earlier a woman marries, the more children she is likely to have

The graph below is a record of the population size of reindeer on one of the Pribilof Islands off the coast of Alaska where they were introduced in 1911. If it is know that the availability of winter forage determines the carrying capacity for reindeer, what can be interpreted from this graph? a) The population crashed due to overgrazing by the reindeer. b) An environmental resistance factor like disease caused the population to decline somewhat. c) Some reindeer were lost to predation by wolves d) Some reindeer emigrated to another island.

a. the population crashed due to overgrazing by the reindeer

What can be interpreted from the figure below about the lifetime probability of death by selected causes? a) The top three causes of death are caused by risks that are controlled by genetics as well as by lifestyle or environment. b) There is a greater risk of death in flying in an airplane than driving a car. c) All the top five causes of death are caused purely by stochastic (random) events and cannot be changed by behavior. d) All of these causes of death are risks that are solely controlled by environment.

a. the top three causes of death are caused by risks that are controlled by genetics as well as by lifestyle or enviornment

A narrow-spectrum pesticide would kill: a) all insects in the vicinity. b) the organism for which it was intended. c) broad-leafed plants. d) grasses and their relatives. e) a variety of organisms.

A pesticide used to kill plants is a/an: a) fungicide. b) herbicide. c) insecticide. d) botanical. e) rodenticide.

According to the U.S. map below of average daily total of annual solar energy, which state is least suited for producing electricity from solar energy? a) Nebraska b) Michigan c) New Mexico d) North Carolina e) North Dakota

According to the definition of biomass, which of the following cannot be considered a biomass fuel? a) charcoal b) hydrogen c) wood d) animal dung e) peat

Adaptations found in inhabitants of the rocky intertidal zone include: a) soft bodies. b) an anchor or some other means of attachment. c) streamlining. d) warning coloration. e) delicate outer coverings or bodies.

All of the following are problems associated with incineration except a) air pollution containing mercury. *b) contamination of groundwater with heavy metals and pesticides. c) large quantities of ash, which must be disposed of properly. d) NIMBY site selection. e) expensive to operate.

All of the following represent ways in which individuals can reduce water consumption EXCEPT: a) using a dishwasher rather than handwashing dishes. b) washing many small loads of laundry. c) installing low-flow showerheads. d) installing low-flush toilets.

An example of a building design taking advantage of passive solar potential is a) installing energy efficient central cooling and heating systems. b) positioning window overhangs to shade in summer while allowing winter sun to penetrate the building. c) removing insulation from walls and attic. d) replacing decorative lawns with drought tolerant landscaping. e) painting the building a light color in the summer and a dark color in the winter.

Areas of land covered with water for at least part of the year is called: a) a pond b) a wetland c) groundwater d) an aquifer

As illustrated below, the electrodes in a fuel cell system a) provide oxygen for energy-releasing chemical reactions. b) provide a flow of negatively charged electrons to generate electricity. c) extract hydrogen atoms from a variety of chemical substrates. d) convert diatomic hydrogen into water. e) convert diatomic oxygen into water.

Comparatively, which of the following energy resources has the overall lowest operating costs, lowest environmental impact, and highest efficiency? a) tidal energy b) geothermal energy c) photovoltaics d) nuclear power e) fossil fuels

El Niño and La Niña are similar in that both events a) originate in the Atlantic Ocean b) affect weather patterns c) are predictable every year d) cause global cooling e) are associated with Christmas

Gyres are: a) prevailing winds. b) circular ocean currents. c) an effect of El Niño. d) an upwelling of deeper waters. e) major climate zones.

How is the home illustrated below an example of energy efficiency? a) several small furnaces rather than one large one will be used to heat the home. b) less energy is need to heat the home because of the superinsulation. c) the thermostat of the home will be set lower to save energy. d) fossil fuels will be used to provide central heating to the home. e) the roof will not allow any solar energy to enter the home.

In rural areas of developing countries, photovoltaic cells are used for all of the following purposes except a) charging batteries. b) heating hot water heaters. c) providing refrigeration for vaccines. d) grinding grain. e) pumping water.

Subduction occurs: a) when ozone is struck by cosmic radiation. b) when one tectonic plate descends below another. c) because of the Coriolis effect. d) on the leeward side of a mountain. e) as the result of volcanic eruptions or earthquakes

The area shown below that is occupied by acorn barnacles, etc is part of the a) benthic zone b) intertidal zone c) neritic zone d) supratidal zone

Use the diagram below to answer the following question. The Himalayas are continuing to increase in height because these two plates are being rammed together. a) African and Eurasian b) Eurasian and Indian- Australian c) Eurasian and Pacific d) North American and Eurasian

What kind of tree harvesting is illustrated here? a) Clear- cutting b) seed tree cutting c) selective cutting d) shelterwood cutting

Which of the following best describes how this geothermal heat pump works? a) the pressure of hot water from a deep well turns a turbine and generates electricity. b) Steam separated from hot water pumped from underground turns a turbine and generates electricity. c) water is transferred from a deep well to a coil exposed to solar radiation to heat the water sufficiently to generate steam, which turns a turbine and generates electricity d) a pipe with heated oil is sent deep into Earth to initiate a volcanic eruption then is tapped so that the energy can be used to generate electricity. e) water is transferred from a deep well into a hot water tank, which is kept at a constant temperature by combustion of natural gas.

Which of the following does not affect ocean currents? a) position of the continents b) marine organisms c) atmospheric temperatures d) prevailing winds e) varying density of seawater

Which of the following pollution problems are caused by sewage pollution? a) Sediments that can reduce light penetration in water bodies. b) Disease causing agents that pose a risk to human health. c) Radioactive substances that can potentially threaten drinking water. d) Carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global climate change.

Why is this part of the Colorado River in Mexico dry? a) Severe droughts have reduced water flow so that the river often dries up. b) So much water has been diverted for irrigation that the river often dries up. c) The Colorado is an intermittent river, which means it naturally dries up in the late summer. d) Dams built for hydroelectric power generation have cut off water to this region of the Colorado River.

Would the materials illustrated below make a good raw material for composting? Why or why not? a) no, because the polyvinyl chloride toxins in plastics would leach into the compost and make it contaminated *b) no, because composted materials must be biodegradable and these plastics are chemically stable and do not readily decompose c) yes, because plastics can be shredded or shaped into pellets to provide uniformity in the compost d) yes, because global demand for bottled water is increasing and recycling saves resources e) yes, because composting bins can be rotated to thoroughly mix these bottles with other composted materials, speeding up decomposition.

What is the best long-term option for the storage of high-level radioactive waste in the U.S.? a) in compartments at the bottom of cooling towers at nuclear power plants. b) deep burial in steel waste canisters at distant sites from population centers c) injection underground between layers of clay in remote areas d) storage in concrete casks at the bottom of the ocean e) export it to foreign locations

What valid conclusion can be drawn from the data table below? a) Coal is an environmentally cleaner energy than nuclear. b) Coal has a larger environmental footprint than nuclear energy since it requires more land and more fuel. c) Coal is safer in relation to short-term risk of catastrophic accidents than nuclear. d) Being a coal miner is a safer occupational risk than being a nuclear plant employee. e) Coal's contributions to climate change are much smaller than nuclear energy's contributions

How much does the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predict global temperature might increase by the year 2100? a) 0º to 1.4ºC. b) 1.4º to 5.8.ºC. c) 3º to 5.7ºC. d) 3.5º to 10.4ºC. e) none, they didn't actually make such a prediction.

b. 1.4 to 5.8

The computer models below show acidity of ocean waters in 1995 and 2100. What can be interpreted from the models about ocean acidification? 1. Plant and animals in the Arctic and Antarctic are likely to be the first and also the most affected by ocean acidification. 2. Since coral reefs are susceptible to acid bleaching, if water acidity around the equator increases as projected then coral reefs will be affected. a) 1 b) 2 c) Both 1 and 2 can be interpreted from the models. d) There is not sufficient information in these models for them to be interpreted.

b. 2

What is the global average replacement-level fertility rate in humans? a) 1.7 b) 2.1 c) 2.6 d) 3.5

b. 2.1

What are the 3 most populated countries? a) China, India, Russia b) China, India, United States c) China, Bangladesh, India d) Pakistan, Indonesia, Japan

b. China, India, United States

Scientists collect current data about the Earth's surface temperatures in all the following ways except: a) land-based meteorological stations b) air bubbles that form in winter ice c) weather balloons d) sea-surface buoys with temperature sensors

b. air bubbles that form in winter ice

Assuming the absence of air pollution control devices, which of the following is a major source of sulfur dioxide? a) refrigeration and air conditioning b) coal-burning power plants c) motor vehicles d) fertilizers

b. coal-burning power plants

Increasing educational opportunities especially for women results in a decrease in total fertility because it: a) decreases the marriage age. b) delays the age at which women have their first child. c) decreases access to contraceptives. d) leads to a greater understanding of traditional and religious beliefs.

b. delays the age at which women have their first child

Which of the following is a form of climate change adaptation? a) planting and maintaining forests b) developing varieties of drought resistant trees c) increase fuel efficiency of vehicles d) replacing coal burning power plants with natural gas

b. developing varieties of drought resistant trees

We measure toxicity by the dose at which adverse effects are produced. Which if the following statements about the dose of and response to toxic agents are true? a) Lethal doses of particular toxicants for humans is known through doing laboratory tests on human subjects. b) Doses are expressed in milligrams of toxicant per kilogram of body weight. c) Sub-lethal doses usually produce acute toxicity whereas lethal doses produce chronic toxicity. d) Response to a dose depends only on the type of toxicant and not the age or health of the organism.

b. doses are expressed in milligrams of toxicant per kilogram of body weight

What term BEST describes the movement of individuals out of a population? a) Natural increase. b) Emigration. c) Immigration. d) Zero population growth.

b. emigration

Which of the following controls the regulation of toxins in the environment in the United States? a) United States Department of Agriculture b) Environmental Protection Agency c) United States Fish and Wildlife Service d) Environmental Working Group

b. environmental protection agency

Why are infectious agents more easily spread more among people who live in a city such as the one pictured below? a) Air pollution contributes to the spread of infectious agents. b) Extremely crowded conditions make the transmission of infectious agents easier. c) Industrial pollutants like POPs increase the risk of spreading infectious diseases. d) Road construction allows infectious agents to move into cities

b. extremely crowded conditions make the transmission of infectious agents easier

Even if all burning of fossil fuels was stopped today, why will temperatures continue to increase? a) Fossil fuel emissions are not responsible for the enhanced greenhouse effect. b) Greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere for many years. c) Deforestation must also be stopped in order for temperatures to decline. d) Increased methane emissions will more than make up for the difference.

b. greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere for many years

Winds tend to blow from areas of ____ atmospheric pressure to areas of ____ atmospheric pressure, and the greater the difference between the high- and low- pressure areas, the _____ the wind. a) low; high; weaker b) high; low; stronger c) low; high; stronger d) high; low; weaker

b. high; low; stronger

In the United States, what sector consumes the greatest portion of the nation's total energy? a) transportation b) homes and offices c) industry d) mining e) solid waste management

b. homes and offices

What do population ecologists study? a) How animal communities form and interact b) How groups of animals of the same species respond to its environment c) The impact of humans on the environment d) How ecosystems fit into the landscape

b. how groups of animals of the same species respond to its envionrment

The graph below is a record of human population growth over time. What can be interpreted from this graph? a) Human population is being regulated by environmental resistance factor like disease. b) Human populations are currently growing exponentially. c) Humans are the largest population on the planet. d) Human populations are growing globally during to migration.

b. human populations are currently growing exponentially

The young age structure of urban areas can be attributed to: a) high birth rates in urban areas b) influx of young people from rural areas c) high death rates in urban areas d) the presence of more females than males in urban areas

b. influx of young people from rural areas

Ozone is considered a secondary air pollutant because it: a) is in the upper atmosphere. b) is formed by chemical reactions in the atmosphere. c) results in higher rates of skin cancer. d) results in asthma and other lung diseases.

b. is formed by chemical reactions in the atmosphere

What is industrial smog? a) It is only formed by reactions involving sunlight and nitrous oxides and hydrocarbons released from automobile exhaust. b) It is formed from sulfur oxides and particulate matter released from combustion of heating oil and coal. c) It is formed by reactions between CFCs from industrial processes and ice crystals in the upper atmosphere. d) It is formed when secondary pollutants such as ozone combine with primary pollutants such as hydrocarbons in cold winter temperatures.

b. it is formed from sulfur oxides and particulate matter released from combustion of heating oil and coil

Chemical A has a toxicity level of 1 and chemical B has a toxicity level of 2. If a mixture of the two chemicals has a toxicity level of 4, what can we say about the results of the mixture? a) it was additive. b) it was synergistic. c) it was antagonistic. d) it was persistent.

b. it was synergistic

What is the fate of solar radiation that reaches the Earth? a) Most solar radiation is absorbed by gases in the atmosphere. b) Most solar radiation is reflected by snow, ice, and light colored land. c) Most solar radiation is absorbed by the land and ocean. d) An equal amount of soar radiation is absorbed by land, air, and water as is reflected back into space.

b. most solar radiation is reflected by snow, ice, and light colored land

What is the main source of the indoor air pollutant radon? a) The burning of wood and dung for cooking fires. b) Natural emissions seeping into building foundations from the ground. c) Cigarette smoking. d) Carpeting, fabrics, and furniture.

b. natural emissions seeping into building foundations from the ground

Electrostatic precipitators use electrical charges to attract and track what pollutants? a) Ozone. b) Particulates. c) Sulfur oxides. d) Nitrogen oxides.

b. particulates

What do demographers study? a) The earth's carrying capacity. b) Population changes and characteristics. c) Energy resources. d) Food production.

b. population changes and characteristics

What change in human population growth is predicted by the United Nation's population models? a) Population will double by 2100. b) Population will begin to level off by 2100. c) Population will continue to grow exponentially. d) Population will level off by 2525.

b. population will begin to level off by 2100

Which of the following is an example of environmental resistance? a) Unlimited resources b) Predation c) Ideal conditions d) High growth rate

b. predation

The United Nations periodically publishes population projections for the 21st century. In their most current projection (shown in the graph below), their estimates range from a high estimate (10.6 billion in 2050) to a low estimate (7.7 billion in 2050). What is the reason for this range of population numbers? a) The estimates project what we hope will happen (low estimate) versus what we expect will happen (high estimate). b) The estimates vary depending on fertility changes, particularly in less developed countries, because that is where almost all of the growth will take place. c) The estimates are based on how epidemics such as AIDS, SARS, and swine flu progresses affecting future death rates. d) The estimates vary depending on the population model used.

b. the estimates vary depending on fertility changes, particularly in less developed countries, because that is where almost all of the growth will take place

What can you conclude about the bacterial population shown in the graph? a) Carrying capacity has been reached. b) The population is growing at its biotic potential. c) The population is growing linearly. d) Reproductive rate exceeds the ability of the environment to sustain it.

b. the population is growing at its biotic potential

Which of the following is NOT TRUE of highly developed countries? a) A list would include Japan, Australia, and Germany. b) They have high fertility rates. c) They have very low infant mortality rates. d) They have longer life expectancies than in less developed countries.

b. they have high fertility rates

The total fertility rate is the number of children born: a) to the average woman per year. b) to the average woman during her lifetime. c) in the world during a single year. d) in a population during a single year.

b. to the average woman during her lifetime

The global distillation effect occurs when: a) certain molecules in the atmosphere convert solar radiation to heat. b) volatile chemicals emitted in warm areas move to cooler latitudes. c) ozone in the upper atmosphere is destroyed, allowing more UV radiation to reach the planet. d) volatile organic compounds react in the presence of UV radiation to produce ozone.

b. volatile chemicals emitted in warm areas move to cooler latitudes

___________ refers to conditions in the atmosphere at a given place and time. a) Climate b) Weather c) Precipitation d) Wind speed

b. weather

A pesticide that kills a variety of organisms, including beneficial organisms, in addition to the target pest is called: a) herbicide b) insecticide c) broad-spectrum pesticide d) narrow-spectrum pesticide

All of the following are options to conserve energy at home except a) improve insulation. b) install double paned windows. c) keep a beverage refrigerator in the garage. d) use thermal lined curtains. e) caulk cracks on exterior of home.

An individual who is undernourished: a) probably consumes excess fats and/or sugar. b) is unlikely to contract marasmus since it must be inherited from at least one parent. c) receives fewer calories than needed for an extended period of time. d) has an adequate calorie intake, but is missing essential nutrients such as minerals or vitamins. e) is one of an estimated 50 million children under age six who are undernourished.

Approximately 55 percent of the land in the United States is owned by: a) the federal government, as national parks. b) Native Americans. c) citizens, corporations, and non-profit organizations. d) state and local governments. e) the federal government, as national forests and rangelands.

Benefits of dams include all of the following EXCEPT: a) generating electricity. b) providing flood control for areas downstream. c) increasing habitat quality for native fishes. d) providing potential recreation benefits.

Forests play an important role in the hydrologic cycle by: a) returning most moisture to underground storage as groundwater. b) recycling small amounts of water to the atmosphere. c) recycling 75% of precipitation to the atmosphere by transpiration and evaporation. d) removing large amounts of carbon monoxide from the atmosphere. e) increasing runoff to local streams.

Germplasm: a) can only be distributed by government agencies. b) refers to only the seeds of traditional crop varieties. c) Any plant or animal material that may be used in breeding. d) cannot be used to preserve or improve the genetic characteristics of livestock. e) All of the above

How does BOD relate to dissolved oxygen and result in fish kills? a) BOD oxygen is a form that fish do not take up through their gills, so fish die when BOD is high. b) BODs are organisms that produce toxins that kill fish, dissolved oxygen increases when there are fewer fish using oxygen. c) BOD is the amount of oxygen used by microorganisms, when it is high there is not enough oxygen left for fish and they die. d) Fish cannot live in BOD sewage and they die, oxygen decreases with fewer fish present

In Europe more than 50% of the available water is used for what purpose? a) agriculture b) domestic use c) industrial use d) groundwater recharge

Increased soil erosion may be caused by all of the following except: a) construction of buildings. b) construction of roads. c) construction of shelterbelts. d) clearcutting large forested areas. e) agriculture.

Integrated waste management refers to a) dilution and dispersal of chemicals. b) use of federal lands for hazardous waste disposal. *c) a combination of source reduction, reuse, recycling, composting. Landfills and incineration. d) uniting municipal and nonmunicipal waste management programs. e) using incineration as a single technique for waste disposal.

Modern agriculture has embraced the addition of low doses of this to the feed for pigs, chickens and cattle. a) pesticides b) hormones c) antibiotics d) sanitizer

Passive solar heating refers to using a) the sun's energy, collected by solar panels, to generate electricity b) plant and animal material as fuel to generate heat c) sun's energy to heat building without pumps or fans to distribute the heat d) recycled water to cool the nuclear reactor in power plants e) solar-generated hydrogen to produce water and heat

Pheromones are: a) produced by bacteria. b) toxins. c) sexual attractants. d) involved in metamorphosis. e) pesticides.

Solid materials discarded by homes, offices, stores, restaurants, schools, hospitals, prisons, libraries, and other commercial institutional facilities are considered a) integrated stable waste. b) nonmunicipal solid waste. *c) municipal solid waste. d) unrecyclable waste. e) hazardous waste.

Sustainable water use refers to: a) acquiring water supplies for human consumption by using the best available technology such as building dams and constructing water diversion systems. b) obtaining water from previously unusable sources of water by removing salt from seawater or salty groundwater. c) the wise use of water resources, without harming the essential functioning of the hydrologic cycle or the ecosystems on which present and future humans depend. d) conserving water by reusing and recycling water and improving water-use efficiency to augment water supplies

The Wilderness Act of 1964: a) established five new national parks. b) limits the percentage of an area that can be developed for human habitation and other activities. c) gives wilderness areas the highest protection of any federal lands. d) established wilderness areas, but only within existing national parks. e) safeguards mountain areas but not tundra or desert.

The major advantage of a fuel cell over a standard battery is that a) fuel cells are less expensive to produce and operate than standard batteries. b) a fuel cell generates electricity without the need for positive or negative electrodes but batteries have these electrodes. c) fuel cells produce power as long as they are supplied with fuel whereas batteries store a fixed amount of energy. d) fuel cells generate small amounts of CO2 and sulfur oxide emissions compared to the large amounts emitted by standard batteries. e) fuel cells do not have any advantages over standard batteries

The removal of all mature trees in an area over a period of time is known as: a) clearcutting. b) even-age harvesting. c) selective cutting. d) seed-tree cutting. e) shelterwood cutting.

Tidal energy cannot become a significant resource worldwide because a) the accompanying tidal waves cause too much environmental destruction. b) the equipment required to harness this energy is not yet c) few areas have large enough differences in water level between high and low tides to make power generation feasible. d) sand damages the equipment e) tidal energy can become a significant resource worldwide.

What causes salinization? a) Overuse of road salts in urbanized areas. b) Leaking of ocean water into overused aquifers in coastal areas. c) Accumulation of salts in agricultural soils due to repeated irrigation. d) Increased evaporation and transpiration in urbanized areas.

What conclusion can be drawn from analysis of the data shown below? a) If the current trend continues, the world wind energy-generating capacity in 2020 will doubled. b) The growth of global wind energy consumption is linked to global economy. c) Global wind energy-generating capacity has consistently increased in the last 10 years. d) Global wind energy-generating capacity has consistently decreased in the last 10 years. e) Global wind energy-generating capacity has fluctuated considerably in the last 10 years.

What is an economic benefit of recycling? a) use of energy and generation of pollution for curbside collection b) increase use of sanitary landfill *c) generates jobs and revenues from selling of recycled products d) use of natural resources in reprocessing materials e) recycling has no economic benefit

What is gray water? a) Water used in industrial processing that is cleaned and used for irrigation. b) Leftover irrigation water that is collected and recycled. c) Water that has already been used in sinks, showers, washing machines, and dishwashers. d) Water contaminated by salt from saltwater intrusion that is used for industry.

What is the MAIN reason that water problems have become more severe in the southwestern United States in the last 25 years? a) Range wars. b) Saltwater intrusion impairs drinking water. c) Rapid population growth laces more burdens on the water supply. d) Contamination of water by toxic wastes makes it unusable for domestic and agricultural use.

What is the main cause of the decline in the size of the Aral Sea? a) A dam failed and as a result it drained the Aral Sea reservoir. b) Pesticides contaminated the fish living in the sea and thus the water was drained to try and restore the fishstock. c) Water was diverted from the sea to irrigate cotton in the Soviet Union. d) Global warming lowered water levels due to decreases in precipitation and increases in evaporation.

What type of solar heating system would be most efficient at producing high-temperature water for industrial applications or steam to run turbines that generate electricity? a) fuel cells that directly convert chemical energy into electricity. b) biomass generators that burn natural materials to generate heat. c) solar thermal electric generation systems using mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight to heat water. d) passive solar systems that use building design to maximize winter sunlight to heat water. e) convection solar heating systems that circulate warm air throughout the liquid

What typically happens to estuaries when surface waters are overdrawn? a) They dry up. b) They become less salty. c) They become saltier. d) They can no longer be used for drinking water or for irrigation.

When solid waste is incinerated, a) microorganisms completely dispose of fly ash. b) methane gas is produced that can generate electricity. *c) the volume of solid waste is reduced by up to 90%. d) large amounts of coal are needed to keep the fires burning. e) glass is put in first to melt and provide residual heat for remaining solid waste incineration.

Which of the following is a nonmetallic mineral? a) ore b) chromium c) salt d) nickel e) silicon

Which of the following is incorrectly matched? a) municipal solid waste : school rubbish b) municipal solid waste : library trash *c) municipal solid waste : agricultural wastes d) nonmunicipal solid waste : mining debris e) nonmunicipal solid waste : industries refuse

Which of the following is not important in determining the distribution of organisms in aquatic biomes? a) light penetration b) mineral nutrient concentrations c) precipitation d) salinity e) waves and currents

Which of the following statements about organic food production is true? a) Organic farming has allowed U.S. agriculture to become the most efficient and productive in the world. b) It may involve the use of antibiotics and hormones for livestock, as long as no chemicals are added to crops. c) Organic farms use no pesticides, instead they rely on alternative pest management. d) The soil is fertilized with commercial inorganic fertilizer, with the use of cover crops every fourth year. e) Organic farms must be kept insect-free to allow for the crops to survive without the use of pesticides.

Which of the following terms describes a serious overconsumption of calories that leaves the body susceptible to disease? a) obesity b) malnutrition c) overnutrition d) food insecurity

A device that initiates and maintains a controlled nuclear fission chain reaction to produce energy for electricity is a a) geothermal nuclear apparatus. b) nuclear combustion chamber. c) nuclear reactor. d) nuclear electric engine. e) electrical fusion device.

According to the data below, a) people in developing countries consume more commercial energy per person than people in developed countries. b) Egypt's population has the lowest per person commercial energy consumption. c) people in the United States use 25% less commercial energy than in Canada. d) people in Mexico use 50% less commercial energy than the United States. e) people in Nigeria and Mexico have the same levels of commercial energy consumption.

All of the following statements are true about surface mining except a) Strip mining is an example of surface mining. b) It accounts for 60% of the coal mined in the U.S. c) Surface mining is the most hazardous type of mining for workers. d) Surface mining is a less expensive mining process than subsurface mining. e) Mountaintop removal is an example of surface mining.

Natural gas is considered a "better" fossil fuel than oil because natural gas a) is easier to transport. b) is a renewable resource. c) contains almost no sulfur and releases less CO2 when burned. d) is less plentiful. e) has no potential to cause explosions.

One advantage of conventional nuclear power, when compared to coal, is a) no related occupational deaths. b) limited risk from catastrophic accidents. c) no contribution to global warming. d) unlimited supply of raw materials. e) no prospect of water pollution.

The 2009 Obama administration has withdrawn support for the _______site that the 1987 Nuclear Waste Policy Act identified as a permanent underground storage location for high-level radioactive wastes. a) Arctic National Wildlife Refuge b) Murmansk, Russia c) Yucca Mountain, NV d) Gulf coast offshore platforms e) Commercial nuclear reactor facilities

What is a clean coal technology designed to do? a) reduce acid mine drainage b) decrease the cost of electricity c) decrease air pollution d) protect the health of coal miners e) restore the environment after coal has been mined

What technology can make coal a cleaner fuel? a) fluidized-bed combustion b) building smoke stacks taller c) implementing a prewash of coal prior to combustion d) using lower quality, high sulfur coal e) mixing coal with natural gas to create a hybrid fuel

Which of the following parts of a typical nuclear power plant is incorrectly matched with its function? a) reactor core : where fission occurs b) steam generator : heats liquid water from energy produced by nuclear fission c) combustion engine : enrichment of uranium ore d) turbine : uses steam to generate electricity e) condenser : cools the steam converting it back to liquid

Which of the following statements about nuclear energy is false? a) One advantage of nuclear energy is lack of air pollution. b) The coolant used in a nuclear reactor is water. c) Uranium is a renewable resource. d) Radioisotopes in spent fuel remain radioactive for thousands of years. e) The long-term, safe storage of radioactive waste must be overcome to realize the potential of nuclear energy.

Which of the following statements is false? a) The burning of both oil and coal produce nitrogen oxides. b) The burning of both oil and coal leads to acid deposition. c) The burning of both oil and coal produce almost no sulfur oxides. d) The burning of both oil and coal provide sources of energy. e) The burning of both oil and coal produce CO2.

The worldwide total fertility rate is currently: a) 1.7 b) 2.1 c) 2.6 d) 3.5

c. 2.6

What do the labels on the graph represent? a) A = ED50 and B = LD50 b) A = dose response minimum and B = dose response maximum c) A = threshold level and B = ED50 d) A = lethal dose and B = sub-lethal dose

c. A=threshold level and B=ED50

What causes ozone depletion? a) Flying airplanes especially at high altitudes. b) Combustion of a sulfur containing fuel like coal. c) CFCs leaking from old refrigerators and air conditioners. d) Deforestation especially in mountainous regions.

c. CFCs leaking from old refrigerators and air conditioners

All of the following about particulate air pollution is true EXCEPT: a) Particulate matter includes both primary air pollutants such as soot and lead, as well as secondary air pollutants such as sulfuric acid. b) Urban areas receive less sunlight than rural areas, partly as a result of greater quantities of particulate matter in the air in urban settings. c) Microscopic particles are less dangerous than larger particles as trace amounts of hundreds of different chemicals bind to the larger particles and inhaling these particles introduces the chemicals, some of them toxic, deep into the lungs. d) The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) samples microscopic particulate matter at 1,000 locations around the United States because its composition varies with location and season.

c. Microscopic particles are less dangerous than larger particles as trace amounts of hundreds of different chemicals bind to the larger particles and inhaling these particles introduces the chemicals, some of them toxic, deep into the lungs

Where is the rain shadow located in this picture? a) X b) Y c) Z d) There is no rain shadow illustrated here.

c. Z

An antagonistic interaction in a chemical mixture results in: a) the expected effect given the individual effect of each component. b) a greater combined effect than expected given the individual effect of each component. c) a smaller combined effect than expected given the individual effect of each component. d) no chemical reaction.

c. a smaller combined effect than expected given the individual effect of each component

The computer-generated image below depicts a part of the southern hemisphere in December 2007. What is the source of the purple-colored region on the image represent? a) A zone with high concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide b) A zone with high concentration of tropospheric ozone. c) A zone with low concentration of stratospheric ozone. d) A zone with high CFC concentrations.

c. a zone with low concentration of stratospheric ozone

Endocrine disrupters: a) are only active in very large doses or exposures b) only affect the reproductive capability of females c) affect the reproduction of fishes, birds, reptiles and mammals d) only affect the reproduction of humans

c. affect the reproduction of fishes, birds, reptiles and mammals

How are nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and carbon oxides related? a) All of them are secondary air pollutants that contribute to global warming. b) All of them are primary air pollutants that contribute to acid deposition. c) All of them are air pollutants that are formed by combustion of fossil fuels. d) All of them are air pollutants that result in respiratory diseases in humans.

c. all of them are air pollutants that are formed by combustion of fossil fuels

What happens during the postindustrial stage (4) of a demographic transition? a) Modest population growth. b) High death rate. c) Greater affluence and higher levels of education. d) High birth rate.

c. greater affluence and higher levels of education

Harm to humans from radon is greatest: a) near nuclear power plants. b) in cities. c) in well-insulated homes. d) outdoors.

c. in well-insulated homes

How does bioaccumulation occur? a) Toxins move up the food chain, so that predators ingest higher concentrations. b) Toxins do not break down and remain in the environment for long periods of time. c) Ingested toxins cannot be metabolized or excreted and are instead stored in the body. d) Organisms are exposed to low doses of toxins over several years

c. ingested toxins cannot be metabolized or excreted and are instead stored in the body

Why is carbon dioxide considered a greenhouse gas? a) It is released when fossil fuels are burned. b) It is part of the carbon cycle, which is also known as the greenhouse cycle. c) It can absorb infrared radiation. d) It is responsible for protecting organisms from UV radiation.

c. it can absorb infrared radiation

Why is the layer of stratospheric ozone so important? a) Ozone breaks down greenhouse gases. b) Ozone shields the earth from infrared radiation. c) It shields the earth from ultraviolet radiation. d) Ozone contributes to albedo, which cools the earth.

c. it shields the earth from ultraviolet radiation

What is likely to happen to the population represented by the age structure pyramid labeled C? a) It will have a very large population of young people soon. b) It should remain stable in the coming years. c) It will begin to decline soon. d) It should grow substantially in the future.

c. it will begin to decline soon

What is life expectancy? a) Maximum life span that an individual of a given species could reach. b) Number of individuals in a population that survive in a given year. c) Number of years an individual of a certain age will probably live. d) Probability that an individual will survive infancy.

c. number of years an individual of a certain age will probably live

In the figure below -- what is the layer identified as A? a) Troposphere layer b) Thermosphere layer c) Ozone layer d) Ionosphere

c. ozone layer

Which of the following BEST illustrates a secondary air pollutant? a) Carbon dioxide released from the burning of wood. b) Radiation released by the burning of coal. c) Ozone produced in photochemical smog. d) Sulfur dioxide released through burning coal.

c. ozone produced in photochemical smog

Which of the following would be considered an infectious disease-causing agent? a) PCBs b) radiation c) pathogens d) AIDS

c. pathogens

Which of the following statements about population ecology is TRUE? a) Population ecology only deals with declining populations that are in need of intervention in order to survive. b) Population ecology focuses on individuals and their interactions, but not the abiotic environment. c) Population ecology attempts to explain how and why the number of individuals in a given area changes over time. d) Population ecology is not important to scientists in applied disciplines, such as wildlife management.

c. population ecology attempts to explain how and why the number of individuals in a given area changes over time

How do primary air pollutants differ from secondary air pollutants? a) Primary air pollutants contain oxygen, while secondary pollutants do not. b) Primary air pollutants cause greater health impacts than secondary pollutants do. c) Primary air pollutants are released directly into the atmosphere, while secondary air pollutants are formed by chemical reactions in the atmosphere. d) Primary air pollutants are formed through photochemical reactions in sunlight, while secondary air pollutants are not.

c. primary air pollutants are released directly into the atmosphere, while secondary air pollutants are formed by chemical reactions in the atmosphere

The process of identifying, assessing, and reducing risk is called: a) risk b) risk assessment c) risk management d) risk categorization

c. risk management

What can be concluded from the graphs below? a) Countries with the largest potential for future increases in population are in Asia. b) Countries with the largest aging population are in Oceania. c) Since lower fertility rates lead to an aging population, it explains why the population of Europe has more elderly than the population of North America. d) Currently about 8% of the world population is under the age of 15 and about 27% is over the age of 65.

c. since lower fertility rates lead to an aging population, it explains why the population of Europe has more elderly than the population of North America

The main unknown factor in any human population growth scenario is: a) emigration rate. b) death rate. c) the Earth's carrying capacity. d) changes in fertility rate as a result condom use.

c. the Earth's carrying capacity

Which of the following statements about sea level rise is false? a) As the Antarctic ice cap melts the amount of water in the oceans increases. b) As ocean water heats up, it expands causing sea levels to rise. c) The melting of continental glaciers does not contribute to changes in sea levels as this melt water is contained in river systems. d) Sea levels have already risen 10-20 cms putting island nations like the Maldives at risk.

c. the melting of continental glaciers does not contribute to changes in sea levels as this melt water is contained in river systems

What does the graph below indicate? a) The paramecium are dispersing to other habitats b) The environmental resistance is declining c) The population is approaching carrying capacity d) The population has reached its biotic potential.

c. the population is approaching carrying capacity

What is necessary for populations to reach their biotic potential? a) They must be bacteria b) Unlimited time c) Unlimited resources d) High carrying capacity

c. unlimited resources

The process in which people increasingly move from rural areas to densely populated cities is termed: a) compact development b) rural redistribution c) urbanization d) brownfield reclamation

c. urbanization

A major problem with conservation tillage is: a) the soil becomes compact. b) soil erosion increases. c) it increases insect populations. d) it requires greater use of herbicides to control weeds. e) the soil contains less organic matter.

A rock that contains a large enough concentration of a particular mineral to profitably mine and extract it is called a/an: a) atom. b) slag. c) metal. d) ore. e) compound.

According to the EPA, the leading cause of water pollution in US rivers is attributed to: a) industries. b) household wastes. c) mining. d) agriculture.

According to the data below, which of these technologies has the highest cost per kilowatt-hour? a) hydropower b) solar thermal c) nuclear power d) photovoltaics e) coal

Acids and other toxic substances that cause problems when they enter streams and the groundwater system are called: a) tailings. b) slag. c) spoil banks. d) acid mine drainage. e) overburden.

All of the following have potential to produce geothermal energy except a) volcanoes b) geysers c) hot springs d) tides e) deep ocean hydrothermal vents

An ecological simplification in which only one type of plant is cultivated over a large area is considered a: a) wildlife corridor b) natural regulation c) wise-use move d) monoculture e) single species standard

An example of source reduction is a) removal of dioxin chemical compounds from medical wastes. b) separating wastes prior to recycling. c) de-inking newsprint for reuse of the paper. *d) making aluminum cans 35% lighter today than in 1970. e) use of microorganisms to treat contaminated soil.

Artificial lakes in which water is stored for later use are called: a) cisterns. b) lakes. c) ponds. d) reservoirs.

Chemical byproducts formed during the combustion of chlorine compounds are a) radioactive substances. b) infectious wastes. c) heavy metals. *d) dioxins. e) polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

Cities are encouraging individual water conservation by: a) including water charges in the rent. b) repairing city water mains and pipes to improve "water accountability". c) collecting and storing rain water for redistribution to individuals. d) providing economic incentives for installing water saving household fixtures.

El Niño—Southern Oscillation events: a) are responsible for dramatic increases in the productivity of fisheries off South America. b) reach coastal areas of Peru around mid-summer. c) occur once or twice every century. d) alter both ocean and atmospheric circulation patterns. e) have little impact on marine organisms, but devastating effects on terrestrial weather patterns.

Energy efficiency is defined as a) energy that escapes in an unusable form. b) energy in bonds broken (minus) energy in bonds formed. c) using fossil fuels instead of renewable alternative energy. d) using less energy to accomplish a given task, by using new technology, for example. e) using less energy by reducing energy use and waste, for example.

Forests: a) fix large amounts of oxygen, removing it from the atmosphere. b) promote soil erosion. c) maintain watersheds. d) provide habitat for few animal species. e) release large amounts of carbon monoxide into the atmosphere.

Geothermal energy a) is derived from solar energy. b) is rises is sea surface temperature. c) is a byproduct of subsurface mining operations. d) capitalizes on Earth's internal temperature. e) is generated through earthquakes

Humus is composed of: a) weathered rocks. b) glacial debris. c) iron and aluminum compounds. d) decaying organic matter. e) various inorganic minerals.

Pesticides are effective: a) at reducing crop productivity due to competition with weeds. b) for controlling some organisms that cause diseases in humans. c) at increasing the amount of crop damage due to insects. d) at controlling insects and weeds, but ineffective against plant pathogens. e) at increasing the farmer's cost for a particular crop.

Problems associated with large hydropower dams and reservoirs include all of the following except a) relocation of peoples' homes b) ecosystem destruction c) loss of biodiversity d) air pollution e) disruption of fish migration

Releasing lady bugs on a rose bush to control aphids is an example of: a) reproductive control b) cultivation method c) pheromone use d) biological control

Solar thermal energy systems are inherently more efficient than photovoltaic solar cell systems because solar thermal systems a) diminish reliance on fossil fuel systems. b) reduce the potential of global warming. c) do not have any moving parts. d) concentrate the sun's energy. e) do not produce any air pollution.

The countries of Indonesia and the Philippines have which of the following in common? a) desertification b) drought c) rare cold fronts during winter d) high rates of deforestation e) extensive dry tropical forests

The effect of sewage on waterways is most similar to the effects of which of the following water pollutants? a) Pesticides. b) Sedimentation from soil erosion. c) Heavy metals. d) Fertilizers.

The human body is made up of approximately percent water by weight. a) 10 b) 20 c) 40 d) 60

The picture below shows a) areas in which soil organisms live. b) how humus is formed c) how leaching occurs d) soil profile

The process in the water cycle that moves water from the land and ocean to the atmosphere is called: a) irrigation b) runoff c) precipitation d) evaporation

Wastewater, including sewage usually undergoes several treatments at a sewage treatment plant. Match the treatment with the process for expected outcome. a) primary treatment: eliminating inorganic and organic compounds by aerating and circulating the wastewater. b) tertiary treatment: biologically decomposing suspended organic material. c) secondary treatment: reducing phosphorus and nitrogen levels with a filtering system. d) primary treatment: removing suspended and floating particles by mechanical processes.

What concern does methane gas production create for the operation of a sanitary landfill? a) may take up space in the landfill that could be better used for solid waste b) may delay the decomposition of biodegradable garbage c) may collect in tanks for use in generating electricity *d) may accumulate in underground pockets, creating the possibility of an explosion e) may seep through cracks in lining of landfill contaminating groundwater

What criticisms and/or problems are associated with the green revolution? a) It has made developing countries dependent on imported technologies such as agrochemicals and tractors at the expense of traditional agriculture. b) High energy costs built into this type of agriculture. c) Environmental problems caused by the intensive use of commercial inorganic fertilizers and pesticides. d) all of these

What is probably the BEST way for industry to reduce water waste? a) Decrease industrial production b) Increased irrigation use c) Switching to dry production of industrial goods d) Reuse and recycle wastewater on site

What is the definition of a hazardous waste? a) any gaseous waste generated from mining b) any solid waste that is dangerously bulky c) plastics that are non-biodegradable *d) a discarded chemical that threatens human health or the environment e) a harmful liquid that forms from seeping through compost

What is the largest ground water deposit in the world called? a) The Aral Sea. b) The Mississippi Basin. c) The Great Lakes. d) The Ogallala Aquifer

What is the most efficient method of disposal for the solid waste illustrated below? a) ship to China for re-use b) bury in sanitary landfill c) store in open dump *d) incinerate to generate electricity e) recycle into patio furniture

What is the structure located at the Rocky Reach Dam on the Columbia River and shown in the photograph below designed to do? a) It reduces erosion downstream.. b) It improves the efficiency of hydroelectric generation c) It slows down water to decrease sedimentation d) It is a fish ladder to help fishes migrate upstream

What type of renewable energy source is being gathered by the women pictured below? a) geothermal b) active solar c) herbivory d) biomass e) biogas

Which of the following identifies a method used to separate impurities from molten metal? a) tailings b) phytoremediation c) mine drainage d) smelting e) recycling

Which of the following is an example of a hazardous waste? a) metals b) old tires c) organic matter *d) organic solvents e) compost

Which of the following is not a goal of the wise-use movement? a) allow unrestricted development of wetlands b) put all national forests under timber management c) sell portions of resource-rich federal lands to private interests d) uphold the Endangered Species Act as currently written e) permit mining and commercial development of wilderness areas, where appropriate

Which of the following is not a source of human impact on the marine environment? a) coastal development, both residential and industrial b) global warming c) trash d) increased levels of O2 e) chemical pollution from pesticides, heavy metals, and synthetic chemicals

Which of the following is the most promising solution to our current and future energy needs? a) tapping into fossil fuel reserves b) revert to using only biomass fuels c) federal economic stimulus money to purchase newer cars d) conservation and increased efficiency e) deciding on one renewable resource for investment and development

Which of the following is/are currently used to increase livestock yields? a) maintaining a wide variety of genetically diverse livestock b) using genetically engineered foodstuffs c) implementing integrated pest management d) administering antibiotics and hormones e) increasing use of nomadic herding

Which of the following statements is false? a) A decline in the albedo of the Earth may lead to either global warming or cooling. b) The hydrologic cycle involves the following processes: precipitation, erosion, evaporation, and transpiration. c) The temperature of the ocean affects the climate of nearby land masses. d) Deserts form in the rain shadows of mountains. e) Coastal upwelling weakens considerably during years with ENSO events, causing a temporary decline in the productivity of these areas.

Which of the following would eliminate mold, mildew or mushrooms in a given area? a) Rodenticide b) Insecticide c) Herbicide d) Fungicide e) Abioticide

Which of these appliances' annual use is the most energy efficient? Power (W) Average Hours Used/Year Television 350 1,440 Water heater 2,800 1,044 Refrigerator 180 6,000 Washing machine 700 144 Clothes dryer 700 455 a) television b) water heater c) refrigerator d) washing machine e) clothes dryer

Which property of water presents a drawback in terms of water pollution? a) Water's high melting and freezing point. b) That water in the form of ice is less dense than liquid water. c) Water's high heat capacity (i.e., ability to absorb\ a great deal of solar heat without substantially increasing in temperature). d) Water's ability to be a universal solvent.

Why is water sometimes treated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation? a) To improve its color. b) To improve its taste. c) To remove sediment. d) To kill disease-causing agents.

At oil refineries, heated crude oil is separated into different products based on ______. a) water solubility b) density c) boiling points d) sulfur content e) energy potential

Nuclear energy is released a) by splitting two electrons. b) by joining a proton with a neutron. c) by breaking a chemical bond between two atoms. d) by splitting an atomic nucleus into two smaller fragments. e) by combustion of uranium ore.

There is a coal burning electric power plant in the vicinity of this forest. What is most probably responsible for the dead trees? a) transportation of coal to the electric plant has physically harmed the trees' roots b) the heat from the power plant raises the ambient temperature in the forest, which stresses the trees c) particulate matter emissions associated with the combustion of coal can reduce photosynthesis resulting in forest decline d) sulfur and nitrogen oxides from power plant's emissions react with water vapor resulting in acid deposition which contributes to forest decline e) the dead trees are the natural result of a mature forest

Where was the most serious global nuclear power plant accident in 1986? a) San Onofre, CA b) Love Canal, NY c) Al-Jahra, Kuwait d) Chernobyl, Ukraine e) Three Mile Island, PA

Which of the following activities is mismatched with its environmental consequence? a) surface mining : acid mine drainage polluting rivers b) coal-burning electric plants : acid deposition destroying forests c) mountaintop removal mining : mine tailings and debris filling valleys d) strip mining : oil spills killing wildlife e) burning fossil fuels : release of CO2, a potent greenhouse gas

Which of the following technologies releases the least amount of the greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide? a) coal combustion b) burning of oil c) natural gas combustion d) nuclear energy e) generation of steam energy

The current trends in human population growth suggest: 1) There has been a slight decline in global fertility rates. 2) The growth rate of human populations has increased from 1.2 in the 1960s to 2.2 today despite decreases in the fertility rate. 3) Population experts expect that the human population growth rate will attain zero population growth by the end of the 21st century. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 1 and 3

d. 1 and 3

Which of the following methods would BEST control photochemical smog? 1. Switching from the burning of coal to the burning of fuel oil or methane. 2. Reducing the number of motor vehicles. 3. Regulating the emissions from bakeries and dry cleaners. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 2 and 3

d. 2 and 3

Which greenhouse gas leaks out of old refrigerators and air conditioners? a) methane b) nitrous oxide c) tropospheric ozone d) CFCs

d. CFCs

At which point in this process is solar radiation absorbed by the land and ocean? a) A b) B c) C d) D

d. D

Which of the following diseases is transmitted by mosquitoes? a) Cholera b) Typhoid c) Cryptosporidiosis d) Malaria

d. Malaria

Which position in the Earth's orbit around the sun represents summer in the southern hemisphere? a) P b) Q c) R d) S

d. S

What is a pandemic? a) an acute disease b) a toxic disease c) a viral disease d) a global disease

d. a global disease

What can be inferred from the graph below? a) The biological response for both toxicants increases as the dose is increased. b) For both toxicants, a harmful response occurs only above a certain threshold level, that is different for each toxicant. c) Toxicant A has a lower effective dose-50 percent (ED50) than toxicant B. d) All of the above can be inferred from the graph.

d. all of the above can be inferred from the graph

Why are high fertility rates generally prevalent in developing countries? a) Children contribute to the family's livelihood. b) Children must care for aging parents. c) Male children are culturally more desirable, so families continue to have children until male children are born. d) All of the choices

d. all of the choices

What does the growth rate depend upon? a) Birthrate b) Death rate c) Immigration d) All of these choices

d. all of these

Which of the following factors affects the total fertility rate for human populations today? a) Availability of family planning services b) Cultural and religious traditions c) Governmental policies d) All of these choices

d. all of these

Which of the following have contributed to the increase in global human population numbers over the last 200 years? a) Greater food production. b) Better medical care. c) Improvements in water quality and sanitation practices d) All of these choices

d. all of these

Besides temperature records, evidence that points to an increase in global temperatures includes: a) rise in sea levels b) retreating of the worlds glaciers c) in the northern hemisphere, spring now arrives a little early and autumn now starts a little late d) all of these choices

d. all of these choices

Which of the following characteristics caused DDT to have such a devastating impact on birds of prey like eagles? a) Persistence b) bioaccumulation c) biomagnifications d) all of these choices

d. all of these choices

Which is true for solar radiation? a) It powers the hydrologic and other biogeochemical cycles. b) It comes in as solar radiation (light energy) but leaves as infrared radiation (heat energy). c) It is captured by plants during photosynthesis and may eventually become the energy available from fossil fuels. d) All of these choices are true

d. all of these choices are true

Unlike people who live in urban areas, people who live in rural areas: a) are employed in occupations which involve industrial labor b) are far more heterogeneous with respect to race c) are far more heterogeneous with respect to religion d) are employed in occupations which involve harvesting natural resources

d. are employed in occupations which involve harvesting natural resources

What is the effect of pesticides like DDT on birds? a) Pesticides like DDT bioaccumulate in the tissues and cause infertility in the females. b) DDT bioaccumulates and causes females to lay eggs with very thin shells that break during the incubation period killing the chicks. c) Birds like the bald eagle have the highest concentration of DDT because they are at the top of the food chain. d) b & c

d. b and c

Urban heat islands affect local air current and weather conditions including: 1. increased number of thunderstorms over cities in summer months 2. lingering dust domes over cities 3. stronger natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) Both 1 and 2

d. both 1 and 2

Which of the following is an LD50 used for? a) determine the concentration of fecal coliform bacteria b) measure bioaccumulation of a chemical c) measure bio magnification of a toxin d) determine the toxicity of a chemical

d. determine the toxicity of a chemical

The major reason that global energy consumption is increasing is that a) the world's population growth is slowing. b) global energy reserves are increasing. c) highly developed countries are using more energy as products are electronic. d) developing countries are using more energy as standards of living improve. e) decreases in energy efficiency of products result in greater energy consumption.

d. developing countries are using more energy as standards of living improve

Which of the following would be a symptom of acute toxicity? a) asthma b) kidney damage c) cancer d) dizziness

d. dizziness

Which of the following activities will not mitigate global climate: a) developing energy alternatives like wind and solar b) switching to hybrid cars c) planting and maintaining forests d) eating more beef

d. eating more beef

Pollutants that interfere with the normal functioning of hormones are called: a) radioisotopes b) synergists c) stimulants d) endocrine disrupters

d. endocrine disrupters

Which of the following is a factor that limits population growth? a) Biotic potential. b) Doubling time. c) Natural increase. d) Environmental resistance.

d. environmental resistance

Although widespread thermometer records have only been kept since the mid-19th century, scientists can reconstruct historical temperature data in the following ways except: a) tree ring analysis b) air bubbles in ancient ice c) ocean sediment d) fossilized dinosaur bones

d. fossilized dinosaur bones

If and when the human population reaches zero population growth, which of the following will be TRUE? a) births + deaths = 0 b) deaths - emigration = 0 c) births + immigration = 0 d) growth rate = 0

d. growth rate = 0

Which of the following does not contribute to smog development in the Los Angeles area? a) Warm, sunny climate b) Surrounding mountains c) Large number of motor vehicles d) Household heating fuels

d. household heating fuels

What is the largest contributor to urban air pollution in Latin America? a) Burning of coal for fuel. b) Indoor burning of wood and dung for fuel and cooking fires. c) Increased industrial burning of fuels. d) Increase in numbers of motor vehicles.

d. increase in numbers of motor vehicles

Risk: a) only applies to environmental impact on human health and welfare. b) is an assessment of the financial cost of environmental impact. c) is the probability that a given hypothesis will be proven true. d) is the probability of injury, disease, death, or environmental damage under a given set of circumstances.

d. is the probability of injury, disease, death, or environmental damage under a given set of circumstances

What did/will the Montreal Protocol achieve? a) It banned all use of CFCs by 1998 in highly developed countries, with indefinite use allowed in developing countries. b) It achieved very little, because it was signed by only 50 countries. c) It has not resulted in any measurable change in the amount of ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere. d) It is expected that ozone-thinning will gradually decline over time with recovery occurring after 2050. 35) What does the reaction of water, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides produce? a) ozone and carbonic acid b) hydrochloric acid and hydrofluoric acid. c) sulfuric acid and nitric acid. d) sulfur nitrate and nitrogen sulfate.

d. it is expected that ozone-thinning will gradually decline over time with recovery occurring after 2050

How does carbon monoxide impact human health? a) It is responsible for global warming related illness. b) It irritates the eyes and skin. c) It impairs the ability of lungs to function properly. d) It reduces the blood's ability to transport oxygen.

d. it reduces the blood's ability to transport oxygen

A dose that is represented as LD50 is a dose that: a) is administered to 50% of the population. b) causes 50% of a population to exhibit whatever response is under study. c) has a threshold response of 50%. d) kills half of the population of test animals.

d. kills half of the population of test animals

Why did lead pollution decrease significantly after the creation of the Clean Air Act? a) Lead is now removed from coal before it is used as fuel. b) Electrostatic precipitators mandated by the Clean Air Act have greatly decreased the amount of lead being emitted from smokestacks. c) Catalytic converters in cars greatly reduce the amount of lead emitted. d) Leaded gasoline was outlawed.

d. leaded gasoline was outlawed

The relationship between the Earth's atmosphere and the biosphere includes all of the following EXCEPT: a) Organisms both depend on the atmosphere for existence and also maintain and modify its composition - for example, a balance between oxygen-producing photosynthesis and oxygen-using cellular respiration maintains the current level of atmospheric oxygen. b) Atmospheric greenhouse gases absorb some of the heat reradiated from Earth's surface keeping the lower atmosphere within the range of temperatures that support life. c) The atmosphere protects the Earth's surface from UV radiation and X-rays making life as we know possible. d) Life on Earth flourishes due to the stable and unchanging nature of the atmosphere.

d. life on Earth flourishes due to the stable and unchanging nature of the atmosphere

What is the cause of global human population growth over the last 200 years? a) Higher birth rate b) Higher fecundity rate c) Increase in immigration. d) Lower death rate

d. lower death rate

According to National Academy of Sciences estimates, 12% of all lung cancers are related to radioactivity caused by which of the following? a) The burning of coal. b) Nuclear power plants. c) Residual atmospheric radiation related to nuclear weapons testing. d) Natural emissions that occur as uranium breaks down.

d. natural emissions that occur as uranium breaks down

Sources of air pollution includes all of the following EXCEPT: a) smoke from forest fires b) exhaust from tailpipes of cars c) gases released during volcanic eruptions d) no exceptions, all of the above are sources of air Pollution.

d. no exceptions, all of the above are sources of air pollution

Which of the following statements about carcinogens is FALSE? a) Cancer was traditionally the main disease evaluated in the chemical risk assessment of environmental contaminants. b) In lab studies rats and mice often respond differently to the same carcinogen. c) It is assumed that one can extrapolate from doses and cancer rates in rats to determine human cancer rates. d) No false statement, all of the above are true

d. no false statement, all of the above are true

Fine solids or liquid droplets suspended in the atmosphere are known as: a) primary air pollutants. b) secondary air pollutants. c) hydrocarbons. d) particulate matter.

d. particulate matter

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." This statement is the heart of the a) remedial principle. b) exposure principle c) persistence principle. d) precautionary principle.

d. precautionary principle

Acute toxicity: a) is only caused by synthetic chemicals. b) is poorly understood by toxicologists. c) may mimic symptoms of chronic diseases. d) produces an effect within a short period of a single exposure.

d. produces an effect within a short period of a single exposure

What has been the major success of the Clean Air Act? a) Higher fuel efficiencies in cars and power plants. b) An increased focus on alternative sustainable energy sources. c) Significant decreases in emissions of nitrogen oxides. d) Significantly less air pollution.

d. significantly less air pollution

Which of the following statements about dose-response curves is FALSE? a) A dose-response curve shows the effect of different doses of a toxicant on a population. b) Doses lower than the threshold level will have no measurable effect on organisms. c) The smaller the LD50, the more toxic the chemical. d) Studies of the dose-response curves of toxicants gives us assurance that for all chemicals there is a threshold level of the chemical so small amounts of chemical pollution pose no health risks

d. studies of the dose-response curves of toxicants gives us assurance that for all chemicals there is a threshold level of the chemical so small amounts of chemical pollution pose no health risks

Which of the following is not a greenhouse gas: a) carbon dioxide b) nitrous oxide c) methane d) sulfur dioxide

d. sulfur dioxide

Automobiles and trucks are NOT an important source of which of the following air pollutants? a) Carbon dioxide. b) Hydrocarbons. c) Nitrogen oxides. d) Sulfur oxides.

d. sulfur oxides

A dose-response curve shows: a) the dose of a given chemical that is lethal to 50% of the population. b) the dose of a given chemical that causes 50% of a population to exhibit a response. c) the correct dose to use in the treatment of illness. d) the effect of different doses on a population of test organisms.

d. the effect of different doses on a population of test organisms

In order for the growth rate to remain constant what must happen to the birth rate? a) It must equal zero b) It must decline c) It needs to be less than emigration d) The growth rate and the death rate must stay the same.

d. the growth rate and the death rate must stay the same

Which of the following was the banning of hormone treated and GMO fed beef by the European Union based upon? a) EPA regulations. b) The Stockholm convention on persistent organic pollutants. c) Previous problems with toxicity of these chemicals. d) The precautionary principle.

d. the precautionary principle

In the figure below -- what is the correct order of the layers of the atmosphere starting with the layer closest to the Earth's surface and moving away? a) They are the stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and troposphere. b) They are the thermosphere, mesosphere, stratosphere, and troposphere. c) They are the mesosphere, stratosphere, troposphere, and thermosphere. d) They are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere.

d. they are the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere

How are carbon dioxide and methane SIMILAR? a) They are secondary air pollutants. b) They are important components of photochemical smog. c) They are important contributors to respiratory disease in humans. d) They contribute to global warming.

d. they contribute to global warming

During which of the four stages of demographic transition shown below does the population grow the most rapidly? a) Industrial b) Preindustrial c) Postindustrial d) Transitional

d. transitional

All of the following are disadvantages of photovoltaic solar cell technology except a) the manufacturing process requires toxic industrial chemicals. b) the amount of land needed to hold the number of solar panels required for large-scale use. c) each panel's low efficiency at converting solar energy to electricity. d) the steadily decreasing manufacturing cost per watt over the last 35 years. e) the carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to greenhouse gases.

All of the following are subsistence agriculture practices except: a) shifting cultivation. b) slash-and-burn agriculture. c) nomadic herding. d) intercropping. e) high-input.

Aquatic organisms that are small or microscopic and carried by currents and waves are called: a) benthos. b) nekton. c) pelagic inhabitants. d) zooxanthellae. e) plankton.

Biomass is composed of a) nonrenewable materials. b) liquid chemicals. c) greenhouse gases. d) soil and water. e) organic material from plants and animals.

Fuel cells produce electricity 1. that cannot be stored and must be used immediately. 2. indefinitely, as long as they are supplied with fuel (hydrogen). 3. from fossil fuel added to the chemical reaction. 4. from solar energy that has been stored as chemical energy. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 4 only e) 2 and 4

How could source reduction be applied to the manufacturing of the product illustrated below? a) safety features of the car improved for increased durability of the product b) technological improvements could decrease the size and weight of the car c) recycled plastics and rubbers used for bumper construction d) steel scrap could replace iron ore in the manufacturing process *e) all of these choices

In 1977, Love Canal, a small neighborhood near Niagara Falls became synonymous with a) genetically engineered microbes designed to decompose PCBs. b) innovative recycling initiatives. c) green chemistry. d) not-in-my-backyard policy. *e) chemical pollution caused by negligent hazardous waste management.

One problem associated with pesticides is that they: a) do not stay where they are applied. b) tend to move through water and soil. c) may move great distances from the point of application. d) can be transported through the atmosphere. e) All of the above.

People might receive enough calories in their diets but still be malnourished if they don't receive enough a) protein b) vitamin A c) iron d) iodine e) All of the above

Photovoltaic systems are characterized by all of the following except a) directly converting sunlight into electricity. b) minimal maintenance. c) producing no pollution. d) functioning on cloudy or rainy days. e) minimal space requirement for large-scale use.

Rangelands in the United States: a) have been on the decline since the early 1900s. b) are maintained exclusively by fees collected from private livestock operators. c) do not currently support large populations of free-ranging grazers. d) make up approximately 50% of the total land area in the United States. e) can be used for grazing private livestock for a fee if you have a permit.

Soil is composed of: a) mineral particles. b) organic materials. c) air. d) water. e) All of the above

To optimize the quality and productivity of their "crops," aquaculture farmers rely on: a) predation. b) breeding cycles. c) market prices. d) diets. e) abundant cheap labor.

Tropical dry forests are being destroyed largely due to demand for: a) food. b) pharmaceutical products. c) mining ores. d) industrial wood and wood fiber. e) fuel.

What is green chemistry? a) the microbial transformation of organic wastes into soil conditioners b) examining of the role of toxic substances in causing diseases and illnesses c) the application of the tools and concepts of chemistry to living systems d) the study of organic and inorganic compounds *e) a subdiscipline of chemistry in which commercially important chemical processes are redesigned to reduce environmental harm

What is the fossil fuel cost of powering a wind turbine? a) 75% b) 50% c) 25% d) 10% e) 0%

What is the relationship between locations of earthquakes and plate tectonics? a) Earthquakes frequently happen where landmasses are on the boundary between two plates. b) Earthquakes release energy as seismic waves. Energy accumulates from the push and stretch of rocks as plates move horizontally across Earth's surface. c) Earthquakes occur along faults. Fault zones are often found at plate boundaries. d) Earthquakes are common in volcanic regions. Volcanoes are common where two plates meet. e) All of the above constitute a relationship between earthquakes and plate tectonics.

Which of the following crops has been significantly improved by the green revolution? a) beets b) wheat c) sweet potatoes d) rice e) B and D

Which of the following forms of renewable energy are ultimately derived from solar energy? a) A only b) B only c) C only d) both B and C e) A, B, and C

Which of the following is a good energy efficiency practice for those with existing homes? a) replace the existing insulation with a higher quality product. b) board up windows on the north, east and west sides of the house. c) install a gas-burning fireplace in the family room. d) pour a concrete foundation between the ground and subfloor of the home e) dial down the water heater's thermostat to knock 3-5 percent off your energy bil,l

Why is biomass an attractive source of energy? a) a shift to biofuels from petroleum-based fuels would be seamless b) it makes use of waste products, reducing waste disposal problems c) it reduces our dependence on fossil fuels d) it produces lower levels of sulfur and ash than coal combustion e) all of these choices

According to the global data below, oil and natural gas provided _______ of the world's energy. a) 8.5% b) 23.5% c) 37.1% d) 45.1% e) 60.6 %

Burning coal causes a more severe CO2 problem than burning other fossil fuels because a) coal is composed of C, H and O and other fossil fuels do not contain C, H, or O. b) coal is burned in a mass burn incinerator, which is open air, whereas other fossil fuels are burned in closed systems. c) the technology does not exists that would filter CO2 from the emissions, but it has been developed for other fossil fuels. d) it takes a greater volume of coal to produce one unit of heat energy than other fossil fuels. e) coal releases more CO2 per unit of heat energy produced than other fossil fuels

Compared to burning coal and oil, the combustion of natural gas releases a) almost no sulfur. b) far less CO2. c) fewer hydrocarbons. d) almost no particulate matter. e) all of these choices.

Offshore drilling to tap the large oil deposits that exist under the continental shelves has the potential a) to provide habitat for wildlife. b) to break the U.S. dependence on imported oil. c) to be exploited by foreign commercial oil companies. d) to be a renewable energy resource. e) for catastrophic oil spills

What does the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 legislate for environmental disasters such as the one pictured below? a) hazardous pay for clean-up workers b) tidal barriers to help prevent the spread of oil slicks c) a remediation protocol for impacted wildlife populations d) requires that, by 2015, oil be transported by land and not sea e) a trust fund that pays to clean up oil spills when the responsible party cannot

What is a major issue with the type of mining illustrated below? a) fluidized-bed combustion b) acid precipitation c) risk of earthquakes d) safety risk to mine employees e) land degradation

What subatomic particles are located in the area indicated by the arrow in the diagram below? I. Electrons II. Protons III. Neutrons a) I only b) II only c) I and III only d) I and II only e) II and III only

Which of the following best describes the change occurring to the Uranium-235 nucleus at #2 in the nuclear fission process? a) U-235 nucleus rearranges the configuration of its electrons, releasing energy b) the enrichment of U-235 into U-255 c) the combustion of U-235 into U-238 d) positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons are attracting each other e) U-235 nucleus splits into two smaller radioactive fragments and several free neutrons

Which of the following is required to adequately quantify risk using a risk assessment? 1) Comparison groups must be formed to compare hazards. 2) Deaths caused by a hazard. 3) An environmental relationship to the risk must be established. 4) The long term impacts of hazard must be studied. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 4 only e) 1 and 4

e. 1 and 4

From the graphs below we can interpret the following: a) Of the three nations, India has the most people overpopulation as it has a smallest per capita ecological footprint but the second largest total ecological footprint. b) Of the three nations, the United States has the most consumption overpopulation as both its per capita and total ecological footprint are the largest. c) France has a per capita ecological footprint of about 4.9 hectares, which makes it about five times the size of India and half the size of the United States. d) All of the above statements can be interpreted from the graphs.

. of the three nations, the United States has the most consumption overpopulation as both its per capita and total ecological footprint are the largest

In the diagram below, what do the footprints represent? What do the numbers on the footprints represent? Explain the diagram.

Ecological footprint is the average amount of productive land and ocean necessary to provide food, energy, water, housing, transportation, waste disposal, per person. In Figure A, you are comparing India to United States based on their ecological footprint in present day. Looking at the Diagram the number inside the India is 1, meaning they use 1 hectare which is equal to 2.5 acres per person. Then looking at the United States' foot in Figure A, the average person uses 9.6 hectare which is 24 acres. The Earth in Figure 1 is saying that this is the one Earth that we have. Now looking at Figure B, you see India has changed to their number to 9.6 hectares just like the United States. Which means the average person needs 24 acres to live in India and the United States. If this were true in fact we would need 5 Earths to provide all of the resources needed for a person to properly live. These two figures show just how much people in the United States consume and use verse a country like India. This can cause issues because obviously we need to decrease our hectares or we could have a real problem in the future.

Compare and contrast environmental science and ecology.

Ecology is the discipline of biology that studies the interrelationships between organisms and their environment. Environmental science is the interdisciplinary study of humanity's relationship with other organisms and the physical environment. Examples of environmental science are biology, geography, chemistry, geology, physics, and economics. Ecology is a basic tool of environmental science. The main difference between environmental science and ecology is ecology focuses on how organisms interact with each other and with their immediate surroundings. On the other hand, environmental science incorporates many elements of Earth and life sciences to understand various natural processes.

Define the terms environmental science and environmentalism . What are the differences?

Environmental science is the interdisciplinary study of humanity's relationship with other organisms and the physical environment. Examples of environmental science is the study of biology, geography, chemistry, and geology. Environmental science has three goals. The first is to try to establish general principles about how the natural world functions. The second is to use these principles to develop viable solutions to environmental problems. The third goal is to reach a scientific consensus before the data are complete. Environmentalism is to work to try to influence attitudes and policies that affect our environment. People try to go around and promote a specific topic that is in need of helping.

Define environmental sustainability and sustainable development. What must change for everyone on Earth to live within these limits?

Environmental sustainability is the rates of renewable resource harvest, pollution creation, and non-renewable resource depletion that can be continued indefinitely. Sustainable development is the economic growth that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable development can only occur within the limits of the environment. According to the text book, the United States consumes the most out of all the countries in the world. If every country were to consume as much as the United States, we would need more than 7 planets of Earth to live sustainably. We need to cut back the amount of resources we use and the amount of pollution we put back into the air or we will begin to run out of resources and won't be able to get them back.

Do you think that you are living unsustainable? Explain. If so, what are the three most environmentally unsustainable components of your lifestyle?

I believe at times I do live unsustainable. One of the most environmentally unsustainable components in my life is using too much water. I try to remember to turn off the water when I am brushing my teeth but sometimes I forget. I also take longer showers than I probably need to. Another unsustainable component in my life would be energy. I have lights in my room that stay on for most of the day until I sleep and I am not always in the room. I could probably turn them off so that I'm not wasting energy. The third unsustainable component in my life would be the vehicle I drive. It is an older car, so the gas mileage is not the best. It also does not have the most up to date advancements so I am sure it pollutes the air way more than a modern-day car.

Suppose the world's population stopped growing today. a) What environmental problems might this help solve? b) What environmental problems would remain? c) What Economic problems might population stabilization make worse?

If the world's population stopped growing today, there would be a few problems that would be solved. If the population stopped today, then for sure we would eventually have less people to feed and less people would pollute from their trash and waste. At some point the population would begin to decrease because we wouldn't be producing any more kids and the baby boomers would start to die. Even though the population would stop it would not fix all the problems. You still need to take into account all of the people that are living right now. They are still using the same amount of water that they were before the population stopped. They also are still driving cars, using the same amount of energy, and producing the same amount of trash. It would be difficult because you still need to try to get people to lower their use of energy and fossil fuels because otherwise you still have the chance of running out. Some of the environmental problems might continue to get worse because people believe the population isn't growing so they don't need to conserve as much. Unless we find something to use instead of fossil fuels to run our cars we still risk running out eventually. The Earth is one size, meaning what we have is all we get. The amount of waste that Americans alone produce is a very large amount and there is only so much room for landfills. We need to cut this amount of waste before we get ourselves into a major problem.

Define environmental sustainability. Discuss three reasons why experts in environmental science think that the human population is not operating sustainable.

Sustainability is the ability to meet humanity's current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. A reason why experts believe the human population is not operating sustainable is they are using nonrenewable resources as if we had an unlimited supply. Another reason is we are using renewable resources faster than they can replenish naturally. The third is the population on Earth continues to grow even though the planet Earth does not have the ability to feed everyone or absorb everyone's wastes.

What is the National Environmental Policy Act? Discuss its role in U.S. environmental law. Include a specific example of the implementation of NEPA in your discussion.

The National Environmental Policy Act was introduced in July of 1970. The EPA requires the federal government to consider the environmental impacts of proposed federal actions, when making decisions about the action. When EPA was introduced it was also the basis for the environmental impact statements (EIS). The EIS is a document that describes the nature and purpose of the proposal, its short- and long-term environmental impacts and possible alternatives that would create fewer adverse effects. The NEPA considers the environmental impact when the federal government is financing highway or dam construction. NEPA also established the Council on Environmental Quality. It was created to monitor the required IES and report directly to the president. NEPA has also influenced environmental legislation in at least 36 states and in many other countries.

Identify and discuss the measures that we will need to implement in order for the human population to stay within the Earth's carrying capacity for our species

The definition of carrying capacity is the maximum population that can be sustained by a given environment or by the world as a whole. In order to reach a sustainable carrying capacity for planet Earth, we need to reach and maintain a stable population and reduce the excessive consumption. One way to reduce the excessive consumption is to put together classes for people to attend so they understand that Earth's carrying capacity is limited. They need to understand that it is possible to run out of resources and the United States alone is decreasing Earth's resources drastically. Another way to reduce consumption is to put in limits the people need to follow for how much resources they can use in a year or two years. People need to understand that they can't keep using all of these resources without giving back to the planet.

Explain the frontier attitude and the effect it had on early development of North America.

The frontier attitude is a desire to conquer nature and put its resources to use in the most lucrative manner possible. When settlers established colonies, such as Jamestown, Virginia, they began to exploit land, timber, wildlife, rich soil, clean water, and other resources. The settlers were starting from nothing so they needed all of the help from the resources around them that they could get. They need the soil to begin growing farmlands to produce food. Settlers needed timber from the forests to build homes and buildings. The giant forests of the Northeast were cut down after a few generations of the European settlers. Forests then were cut down in the Midwest shortly after the Civil War. Logging began not only a source to build homes it became a job for people to live off. Forests were declining faster than they were growing. Settlers swept through America cutting down trees like it was nothing. What they didn't realize is they were cutting them down at an uncontrollable state and the trees wouldn't grow back as fast. Giant forests would be gone forever. Because of the depletion of large forests throughout the United States, national forest and national parks were introduced to try to keep forests from being taken out completely. The Forest Reserve Act was introduced in 1891, which gave the U.S. president the authority to establish forest reserves on public land in order to try to save forests.

3. Describe how you would use the scientific approach for the following situation: You are the owner of a large dealership. Last year you sold 35% SUV, 20% trucks, 45 % regular cars. You spent $5millions in advertising. The overall profit was 10% of the total sales. This year you spent $6 millions in advertising, you sold 20% SUV, 25% trucks, 55% regular cars, but the profit would be 2% of the total sales. State the problem Identify two possible reasons for the problem Describe what experiments would you try, to verify if your reasons are valid. Assume and describe that one reason is valid. Describe what you will do next.

The problem in this example is the second year you spend $1 million more dollars on advertising and you sold more regular cars the second year than the first by 10%. However, you sold 15% less SUVs in the first year than the second year and your overall profit dropped 8% of the total sales in the second year. A potential reason for the drop in SUVs and increase in regular cars was people are starting to be conscious about what car they drive to help improve the environment. A potential reason for the drop in overall revenue is the drop in SUVs sold and increase in regular cars. It could be because SUVs cost more than regular cars so when the drop in SUVs occurred they lost revenue because more regular cars were bought. An experiment I would try for the first potential reason of people being more aware of the environment is to find the best SUV size vehicle that has the highest miles per gallon and the best environmental rating. I would increase the marketing for that specific car to see if people become interested in it because of its good environmental ratings. For the second problem I would focus more to the sales and clearances of the cars. I would put a couple of SUVs on sale for a period of time to see if the sales for the SUV increase, stay the same, or decrease. The last experiment I would try is for the advertising area. Even though the advertising was increased by $1 million dollars from year 1 to year 2 the total sales went down. I would look back to see what exactly is different from advertisement from the first year to the second year and try to do more of what the dealership did in year 1 for the new year. Obviously, year 1 was more successful so I would try to put the extra $1 million dollars to that. After the third year, I would compare the years to see what worked and what didn't. Maybe for the fourth year it is best to not spend that extra million dollars on advertisement.

Which of the following statements is MOST accurate regarding US environmental legislation since 1970? a) Has been mostly successful -- many endangered species are recovering, soil erosion has declined more than 60%, emissions of six important air pollutants have dropped by more than 25%. b) Has mainly been a failure - most endangered species have gone extinct, soil erosion has increased 60%, levels of wet sulfate, a major component of acid rain, have increased by 20%. c) Has been mixed - many endangered species are recovering, much farmland has been conserved, but air pollution and water pollution are worse than in the 1970s. d) Has had little effect - little land has been conserved, no endangered species have been recovered, and pollution levels have not changed much since the 1970s.

a. Has been mostly successful -- many endangered species are recovering, soil erosion has declined more than 60%, emissions of six important air pollutants have dropped by more than 25%.

Discuss the dilemma: a. Economic development leads to pollution. Economic development creates jobs and more money for the people. b. Clean environment is essential for the population. Clean environment means no pollution!

a. In order to have economic development that creates jobs you need to have factories and businesses to make products. In order for factories and businesses to be in business you need to have something to produce and that can cause pollution. It is possible to have both of these things, pollution as well as creating jobs and more money for the people. A way to manage the pollution to keep creating jobs is to have regulations for businesses that they need to follow that limit the amount of pollution that they can produce. These regulations can be ingredients or products that companies need to use versus products that they have used in the past that are better for the environment. b. This saying is difficult because the second sentence is so strong. You can still have a clean environment with pollution, you just have to be smart. Having a clean environment is essential for the population. It is not possible to have both of these statements.

Who was the founder of the Sierra Club and a force behind the establishment of Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks? a) John Muir b) Henry David Thoreau c) John James Audubon d) Aldo Leopold

a. John Muir

Which of the actions indicated in the photographs below would be the BEST way to address the goal of mitigating climate change for achieving sustainable living: a) Apartment buildings with solar panels b) Women in health clinic c) Family eats at market in the Andes d) Restoration in Indonesia

a. apartment buildings with solar panels

Which of the following associations between children, adults, and pesticides is CORRECT? a) Children often face greater exposure, from playing in contaminated areas and putting their hands and other objects into their mouth. b) Children's developing bodies exhibit lower response from a given amount of pesticide than do aging adult bodies. c) Pesticide exposure affects development of height and reproductive organs in young children but commonly cause brain cancer and leukemia in adults. d) Children have more stringent pesticide regulations to protect their health than do adults.

a. children often face greater exposure, from playing in contaminated areas and putting their hands and other objects into their mouth

Laws that impose rules and regulations and set limits of pollution are called: a) command and control. b) environmental impact statements. c) legislative documents. d) legislative directives.

a. command and control

What type of pollution control strategy does the Clean Air Act mainly depend on? a) command-and-control regulation. b) incentive-based regulation. c) relative control regulation. d) environmental impact statements.

a. command-and-control regulation

The graph below represents the cost-benefit diagram for identifying the optimum amount of pollution. What represents the marginal cost of pollution? a) Curve A b) Curve B c) Point X d) Both Curve A and B

a. curve a

The process of evaluating and presenting to decision-makers the relative benefits and costs of various alternatives to an environmental problem is termed: a) full cost accounting b) scientific method c) marketplace accounting d) an environmental impact statement

a. full cost accounting

To test a hypothesis about a given variable, experimental and control groups are tested in parallel. Which of the following best explains the dual experiments? a) In the experimental group, a chosen variable is altered in a known way. In the control group, that chosen variable is not altered so a comparison can be made. b) In the control group, a chosen variable is altered in a known way. In the experimental group that chosen variable is not altered so a comparison can be made. c) In the experimental group, a chosen variable plus all other variables are altered. In the control group, the chosen variable is altered however all other variables are held constant. d) In the experimental and control groups two different variables are altered.

a. in the experimental group, a chosen variable is altered in a known way. In the control group, that chosen variable is not altered so a comparison can be made

Which of the following illustrates a major problem with using gross domestic product as a measure of national productivity? a) It ignores resource depletion and pollution. b) It ignores population growth. c) It is highly unreliable. d) It overvalues environmental costs.

a. it ignores resource depletion and pollution

The idea that species have intrinsic value would be supported by: a) People with a deep ecology worldview. b) People with a frontier attitude. c) People with an expansionist worldview. d) People with a Western attitude.

a. people with a deep ecology worldview

Why are both science and ethics necessary to solve environmental problems? a) Science helps us understand the outcomes of particular actions and ethics are necessary to help us decide what we ought to do among a range of choices. b) Ethics are necessary to keep environmental scientists from exaggerating scientific truths. c) Ethics are necessary to provide economic solutions to problems identified by scientists. d) Because of societal pressures humans cannot generally be trusted to do what is right.

a. science helps us understand the outcomes of particular actions and ethics are necessary to help us decide

What is the BEST definition of preservation? a) Setting aside land and natural resources. b) Careful management of land and resources. c) Using land and natural resources based on current needs. d) Multiple use management of land and natural resources.

a. setting aside land and natural resources

The use of goods and services that satisfy basic human needs, improve the quality of life but minimize resource use is referred to as: a) sustainable consumption b) organic agriculture c) master planned communities d) environmental justice

a. sustainable consumption

Environmental justice is BEST reflected in: a) the concern that the largest number of landfills, incinerators, and sewage treatment plants are found in low-income communities. b) the recognition that a person's values and character define that individual more than how many things he or she owns. c) joining a car-sharing program rather than choosing individual car-ownership. d) the idea that humans have no right to reduce the richness and diversity of life except to satisfy vital needs.

a. the concern that the largest number of landfills, incinerators, and sewage treatment plants are found in low-income communities

What is deep ecology? a) A radical anthropocentric worldview. b) A worldview based on the idea that all species have equal worth. c) An idea that resource consumption is unethical. d) An expansionist worldview.

a. worldview based on the idea that all species have equal worth

All of the following are examples of conservation EXCEPT: a) Phoenicians terraced hilly farmland to prevent soil erosion b) Americans set aside areas as national parks to maintain them in a pristine state c) Greeks practiced crop rotation to maintain yields on farmland d) English regulated the number of sheep that can graze in a particular field

b. americans set aside areas as national parks to maintain them in a pristine state

According to the graph below: a) As more and more pollution is eliminated from the environment, the cost of removing each additional unit of pollution decreases. b) As more and more pollution is eliminated from the environment, the cost of removing each additional unit of pollution increases. c) Cost of pollution removal is constant regardless of how polluted an area is. d) Cost of pollution is relative to the type of pollution

b. as more and more pollution is eliminated form the envionrment, the cost of removing each additional unit of pollution increases

How does science obtain knowledge about the world? a) By an interactive process of experimentation, which refines hypotheses until they are finally proven to be the absolute truth. b) By relying on scientific authorities and the massive amount of knowledge already obtained to explain new data. c) By systematically gathering evidence and discarding potential explanations that do not fit the evidence, and refining those that do fit the evidence. d) By conducting experiments designed to support hypotheses as being correct beyond reasonable doubt.

b. by relying on scientific authorities and the massive amount of knowledge already obtained to explain new data

In the 1970s people's realization of environmental problems including pesticides, increasing population, and loss of natural resources prompted the: a) passage of the Antiquities Act. b) celebration of Earth Day. c) publication of The Population Bomb. d) formation of the Sierra Club.

b. celebration of Earth Day

The scientist in the picture below is MOST likely participating in what step in the scientific process? a) analysis of data b) collection of data c) formulation of a hypothesis d) studying an experimental group

b. collections of data

b. control

The ability to meet humanity's current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs is termed: a) ecology b) environmental sustainability c) environmental ethics d) environmental law

b. enviornemtnal sustainability

The ability to meet humanity's current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs is a) ecology b) environmental sustainability c) ecological footprint d) the IPAT equation

b. enviornmental sustainability

Pollution is considered an external cost because; a) it has a harmful effect borne only by people who purchased the product that caused it. b) its cost to the environment is not reflected in the price of the product that produces it. c) it has a significant impact on the consumer's decision to buy the product that causes it. d) it is a hidden cost that would increase demand if the consumer were aware of it.

b. its cost to the environment is not reflected in the price of the product that produces it

In the scientific method, a hypothesis a) is a statement of fact b) makes a prediction that can be tested c) is usually proven to be correct d) can only be tested once

b. makes a prediction that can be tested

Which of the following is most likely to happen if everybody in the world used resources at the rate that people in the United States do? a) People would be healthier and happier worldwide. b) Our current resources would run out quickly. c) Violent conflicts would decrease because basic needs would be met. d) Economies would prosper

b. our current resources would run out quickly

An Environmental Impact Statement must include: a) an ethical analysis of the proposed action. b) short- and long-term effects and any adverse environmental effects. c) solutions to any potentially adverse environmental effects. d) documentation of the financial cost-benefit analysis of the proposed action.

b. short- and long-term effects and any adverse environmental effects

What is meant by food insecurity? a) The potential decline in agricultural productivity due to reduced soil fertility as a result of multi-cropping. b) The condition in which people live with chronic hunger and malnutrition likely due to poverty. c) The increased pressures on food production as a result of increases in global population. d) The potential decline in agricultural productivity due to conservation tillage.

b. the condition in which people live with chronic hunger and malnutrition likely due to poverty

What is carrying capacity? a) The maximum population in sustained development projects. b) The maximum population that can be sustained by a given environment. c) The average number of organisms living in a given environment. d) The minimum population surviving in the world as a whole.

b. the maximum population that can be sustained by a given enviornment

In 2000, "Clean Energy Now!" was: a) the main reason for the passage of the National Environmental Policy Act b) the theme for Earth Day celebrations c) the reason for the American Dust Bowl d) the new motto for the Sierra Club

b. the theme for Earth Day celebrations

A type of sustainable consumption which recognizes that individual happiness and quality of life are not necessarily linked to the accumulation of material goods but rather that a person's values and character define that individual more than how many things he or she own is know as: a) environmental ethics b) voluntary simplicity c) sustainable development d) environmental justice

b. voluntary simplicity

What is the correct sequence of steps in the scientific method? I. State the problem II. Analyze and interpret the data III. Develop a hypothesis IV. Share the results with other scientists V. Design and perform an experiment to test the hypothesis a) I - II - III - IV - V b) III - I - V - II - IV c) I - III - V - II - IV d) V - IV- III - II - I

c. I-III-V-II-IV

What worldview does this photograph BEST represent? a) A deep ecology worldview. b) A sustainable consumption worldview. c) A western worldview. d) Any environmental worldview.

c. a western worldview

The photograph below is of the Tsukiji Market in Japan. Which of the following statements describes why there are so many Bluefin Tuna available for purchase? a) Dams on rivers trapped many Bluefin Tuna that were migrating upstream to spawn. b) Water pollution from pesticide runoff impaired the swimming ability of Bluefin Tuna in coastal areas so they were more easily captured in fishing nets. c) Bluefin Tuna are being overfished in certain parts of the ocean. d) Global climate change is disrupting Bluefin Tuna migration paths and they now move directly in the main shipping channels and have to be captured to reduce potential damage to cargo ships.

c. bluefin tuna are being over fished in certain parts of the ocean

All of the following describe the process of science EXCEPT: a) Science seeks to reduce complexity of the natural world to general principles which are used to provide new insights. b) Scientific data is collected through observation and experimentation and thus questions of science are limited to testable questions. c) Conclusions inferred from collected data are often based on faith, emotion, or intuition. d) Confirming the validity of new results by repeatability is a requirement of science.

c. conclusions inferred form collected data are often based on faith, emotion, or intuition

Which field of study considers the moral basis of environmental responsibility? a) Deep ecology b) Environmental science c) Environmental ethics d) Voluntary simplicity

c. enviornmental ethics

A state agency has contacted you to do a scientific assessment of kudzu in a nature preserve in southern Georgia. They are concerned about the effects of the non-native invasive vine on a small rare plant that grows on the forest floor in the preserve, but which is found nowhere else in the state. Kudzu is only growing in the east side of the preserve because it hasn't yet had time to invade further. In order to assess the effects of kudzu on the rare plant, you set up the following experiment: Site 1. On the east side of the park with the kudzu, you set up ten 1m x 1m plots on the forest floor. In each plot you count the number of individuals of the rare plant. Site 2. On the west side of the park without the kudzu, you set up ten 1m x 1m plots of the forest floor. In each plot you count the number of individuals of the rare plant. Based solely on the data represented in the associated table, what can you report to the agency that contracted you to do this study? Site Mean number of individuals of rare plant per plot Site 1 1.7 Site 2 4.2 a) Kudzu is shading out the rare plant. b) The rare plant is unaffected by the presence of the kudzu. c) Fewer individuals of the rare plant grow in the presence of kudzu when compared to areas without kudzu. d) It will be impossible to remove kudzu from the park because it grows too fast.

c. fewer individuals of the rare plant grow in the presence of kudzu when compared to areas without kudzu

In the United States ecological footprint of each person is about 10 hectares. The Earth presently has 11.4 billion hectares of productive land and water. If everyone in the world lived at the same level of consumption as the average American about how many earths would we need to survive according to the ecological footprint analysis? a) Two Earths b) Three Earths c) Four Earths d) Five Earths

c. four earths

Which U.S. president established the Civilian Conservation Corps, which employed young men to plant trees, make paths and roads in national parks and forests, build dams to control flooding, and perform other activities that protected natural resources? a) Grover Cleveland b) Benjamin Harrison c) Franklin Roosevelt d) Herbert Hoover

c. franklin roosevelt

A scientist designs an experiment to study the effect various levels of sun exposure on the growth of one species of corn. Which of the following is the variable in the experiment? a) the corn species b) amount of growth c) level of sun exposure d) none of these are variables

c. level of sun exposure

The graph below indicates a) external cost b) full cost accounting c) marginal cost of pollution d) marginal cost of pollution abatement 17. In the field of economics, the additional cost associated with one more unit of something is called a(n) a) marginal cost. b) external cost. c) direct cost. d) fringe cost.

c. marginal cost of pollution

The legislation that requires the federal government to consider the environmental impact of a proposed federal action, such as financing highway or dam construction, when making decisions about that action is: a) Forest Reserve Act of 1891 b) Antiquities Act of 1906 c) National Environmental Policy Act of 1970 d) Wilderness Act of 1964

c. national environmental policy act of 1970

Which of the following is NOT considered in determining net domestic product? a) GDP b) population size c) natural capital d) profit from use of natural resources

c. naturla capital

The graph below represents the cost-benefit diagram for identifying the optimum amount of pollution. The intersection of the two lines indicates a) cost of manufacturing a product if pollution were not considered b) maximum amount of pollution produced in a given process c) optimum amount of pollution that is economically desired d) point where no measurable pollution is produced

c. optimum amount of pollution that is economically desired

One approach to pollution control is incentive-based regulation. In this tactic: a) industries adopting specific pollution control methods recommended by the government will get reimbursed by the government for the cost of that pollution control device. b) industries are encouraged to emit an amount of pollution that is economically most desirable for that company c) pollution control laws establish emission targets and industries are provided enticements to reduce emissions d) pollution control laws establish emission requirements with which industries must comply or be forced out of business

c. pollution control laws establish emission targets and industries are provided enticements to reduce emissions

How would a scientist respond to the statement that "The theory of natural selection is really just an educated guess at what is happening." a) She would agree because theories really are just guesses about the scientific world. b) She would disagree because scientific theories refer to broadly conceived, well-supported explanations of scientific phenomena. c) She would agree because there is not enough support to accept the hypothesis of natural selection. d) She would use the scientific method to conduct her own experiment to test the theory before accepting it as fact.

c. she would agree because there is not enough support to accept the hypothesis of natural selection

Which of the following definitions best describes an environmentalist? a) A lawyer who works on environmental law. b) Writers who write about the environmental impact of corporate America. c) Someone who is concerned about the environment. d) A scientist who studies the interactions of plants and animals.

c. someone who is concerned about the enviornment

Which of the following statements about sustainable development is TRUE? a) Sustainable development can support a high quality of life with continued population growth. b) Sustainable development is only possible for people living in wealthy countries. c) Sustainable development can only support levels of consumption within the limits of the environment. d) Sustainable development will be able to support everyone in the world at the United States level of consumption.

c. sustainable development can only support levels of consumption wihtin the limits of the envionrment

A deep ecology worldview would support all of the following EXCEPT: a) Nonhuman life forms have value that is independent of the usefulness they may have for narrow human purposes. b) The richness and diversity of life contribute to the flourishing of life on Earth and humans have no right to reduce this richness and diversity except to satisfy vital needs. c) The inherent responsibility of individuals to implement changes in society so that humans can flourish. d) A spiritual respect for life reflected in appreciating quality of life rather than adhering to a high standard of living.

c. the inherent responsibility of individuals to implement changes in society so that humans can flourish

When you complained to a friend from India about India's high population she responded by suggesting you consider that the United States is also overpopulated. What do you think she meant? a) The United States has a very high immigration rate. b) The United States has a very high birth rate compared to other developed countries and to China. c) The United States, which is 5% of the world's population, consumes 25% of the world's resources. d) The density of urban metropolitan centers like New York shows that the United States is also overpopulated

c. the united states, which is 5% of the world's population, consumes 25% of the world's resources

Which of the following statements about scientific theories are TRUE? a) Theories cannot be tested. b) Theories are the same as hypotheses. c) Theories can be used to predict the existence of as-yet unobserved things or phenomena. d) Theories are ethical principles based on a religious foundation

c. theories can be used to predict the existence of as-yet unobserved things or phenomena

Which of the following was probably the MOST significant event in 1999 to impact the environment? a) The Kyoto Protocol was signed by the United States. b) The Exxon Valdez created the world's largest oil spill. c) World human population reached 6 billion individuals. d) The first Earth Day celebration was held.

c. world human population reached 6 billion individuals

Which of the following are TRUE about environmental taxes: 1) they are a type of incentive based regulation for pollution control 2) they are a type of command and control regulation for pollution control 3) they are designed to be equal to the external cost of pollution a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 1 and 3

d. 1 and 3 only

The photograph below is an image of Times Square in New York City. Based on the photo, what do you think is USA's most likely contribution to environmental problems? I: Environmental sustainability due to the population density in NYC II: People overpopulation due to the population density in NYC III: Consumption overpopulation as reflected by the advertising billboards a) I only b) II only c) III only d) I and II are both reflected in the photograph

d. I and II are both reflected in the photograph

It has been argued that the United States has a serious consumption overpopulation problem. Why is this possibly true? a) Birth rates are very high in the United States and this consumes a lot of hospital resources. b) The United States is highly urbanized and this requires a massive transit system. c) The United States climate is cold and this requires a huge use of fossil fuels to stay warm. d) The United States population consumes too large a portion of the world's resources due to relatively affluent lifestyles.

d. The United States population consumes too large a portion of the world's resources due to relatively affluent lifestyles

Which of the following is the MOST sustainable product? a) An organic pear from China. b) Wild blueberries collected from a national forest. c) Corn grown in an industrialized farm as cattle feed. d) A locally produced orange grown using limited amounts of pesticides.

d. a locally produced orange grown using limited amounts of pesticides

Which of the following is a modern example of a commons? a) A catfish farm in Louisiana b) Salmon pens in the Bay of Fundy c) Cattle raised on a private ranch in Montana d) A tuna fishery in the open Atlantic Ocean

d. a tuna fishery in the open Atlantic Ocean

What does the phrase "environmental sustainability" imply? a) The actions of humans directly impact the well being of the natural environment. b) Future generations will have the resources necessary for quality of life. c) A shared global responsibility is necessary for conservation practices. d) All of the above are implied by environmental sustainability.

d. all of the above are implied by environmental sustainability

Sustainable development can occur only within the limits of the environment. What conditions are necessary to live within these limits? a) population growth must be held at a level that we can sustain b) the wealthy must stabilize their use of natural resources c) the wealthy must reduce their use of natural resources to a level that can be maintained d) all of these

d. all of these

Which of the following is an example of promoting sustainable consumption? a) wise use of water and other natural resources b) switching from motor vehicles to public transportation c) developing recyclable products d) all of these

d. all of these

An environmental ethicist would be concerned with: a) what role humans play in determining the fate of Earth's resources b) how humans should relate to the natural environment c) the moral basis of environmental responsibility d) all of these choices

d. all of these choices

Environmental sustainability implies: a) the actions of humans directly impact the wellbeing of the natural environment b) future generations will have the resources necessary for quality of life c) the environment can function indefinitely without going into a decline from the stresses imposed by human society on natural systems d) all of these choices

d. all of these choices

Which of the following is key to the elimination of world poverty and stabilizing global population? a) Globalization b) Work programs for men c) Increased consumption d) Educating women and children

d. educating women and children

The interdisciplinary study of humanity's relationship with other organisms and the non-living physical environment is termed: a) ecology b) sociology c) political science d) environmental science

d. enviornmental science

National income accounts are incomplete estimates of national economic performance because national income accounts do NOT include a) gross domestic product b) net domestic product c) estimates of imported goods and services d) estimates of external costs such as natural resource depletion and the environmental cost of economic activities

d. estimates of external costs such as natural resource depletion and the environmental cost of economic activities

When consumption or production of a product has a harmful side effect that is borne by people not directly involved in the market exchange for that product, the side effect is called a(n) a) marginal cost. b) indirect cost. c) additional cost. d) external cost.

d. external cost

I = P x A x T model can be used to calculate which of the following? a) level of urbanization b) people overpopulation c) rate of industrialization d) human impact on the environment

d. human impact on the environment

Why is the deep ecology worldview impractical? a) It is immoral to ask people to lower their standards of living. b) Everyone would need to become a vegetarian. c) It is clearly not sustainable since it gives rights to animals. d) Human population size would have to decline drastically for it to work.

d. human population size would have to decline drastically for it to work

An expansionist worldview would support all of the following EXCEPT: a) An anthropocentric utilitarian view of resources. b) A desire to conquer and exploit nature. c) The inherent right of individuals to accumulate wealth and consume unlimited resources to provide material comfort. d) No exceptions, all of the above would be supported by an expansionist worldview.

d. no exceptions, all of the above would be supported by an expansionist worldview

All of the following would contribute to natural capital, EXCEPT: a) groundwater b) soil c) clean air d) none of these choices, all are natural capital

d. none of these choices, all are natural capital

Sustainable human activities or behaviors include all of the following EXCEPT: a) identifying strategies for recycling natural resources. b) working to limit human population growth. c) developing technologies to improve car mileage. d) promoting consumption to improve quality of life.

d. promoting consumption to improve quality of life

The soil conservation service was formed after what environmental crisis? a) mudslides in California following the San Francisco Earthquake in 1906. b) severe erosion following forest fires in Yellowstone National Park in the 1980s. c) soil contamination by toxic waste at love Canal in the 1970s. d) severe erosion following windstorms in the 1930s.

d. severe erosion following windstorms in the 1930s

Who among the following was a utilitarian conservationist? a) John Muir b) Wallace Stegner c) Henry David Thoreau d) Theodore Roosevelt

d. theodore roosevelt

An integrated explanation of numerous hypotheses is known as a a) fact. b) law. c) control. d) theory.

d. theory

Why is a risk analysis usually performed in solving environmental problems? a) To provide public awareness and endorsement. b) To monitor the initial assessment and modeling of the problem. c) To solicit public opinion about how evidence should be interpreted when selection a course of action. d) To analyze the potential effect of an intervention versus doing nothing.

d. to analyze the potential effect of an intervention versus doing nothing

When is a hypothesis most useful? a) when it cannot be validated b) when it tells us something we already know c) when it is refuted d) when it makes predictions

d. when it makes predictions

What does the "Tragedy of the Commons" refer to? 1) It describes the conflict between short-term individual interest and management of shared resources for long-term environmental stability. 2) It refers to the clash between an environmental theory promoting public ownership of resources and an economic theory promoting private ownership of resources. 3) It relates to the class struggle between farmers and herders in medieval Europe. 4) It refers to the ability to meet humanity's current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) 4 only e) 1 and 4

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