EXAM 5 EVR
According to the projected data, after what year will the majority of people in less developed regions be living in urban areas? 2018 2028 2038 2048
2018
Assume that photovoltaic conversion of solar energy has 10% efficiency. Calculate how many square meters of photovoltaic cells would be needed to supply one person's electricity for the year, based on the yearly average values. 0.285 m2 2.85 m2 28.5 m2 0.0285 m2
28.5 m2
As of 2014, under the jurisdiction of the EPA, approximately ________% of hazardous sites identified under CERCLA as a national priority have been cleaned up. 30 40 60 3 50
30
How many megawatt hours (MWh) per year of savings did the students identify for computers at the Penn State Mueller Laboratory Building? 30 MWh 120 MWh 10 MWh 12 MWh
30 MWh
Based on the yearly average values, calculate one person's residential electricity needs for a year. 4,440 kWh per year 1,560 kWh per year 130 kWh per year 370 kWh per year
4,440 kWh per year
The average American generates approximately ________ lbs. of solid waste per day. 40 1.5 9 4.4 13.7
4.4
The average American produces how much trash per day? 4.4 pounds 10 pounds 25 pounds 100 pounds
4.4 pounds
What was the net amount of uranium imported into the United States in 2005? 45 million pounds 5 million pounds 20 million pounds 65 million pounds
45 million pounds
How much uranium oxide did the United States produce in 2005? 65 million pounds 40 million pounds 5 million pounds 20 million pounds
5 million pounds
Electricity from hydropower composes approximately ________% of the total electricity produced in the United States. 44.2 2.4 24.7 13.6 6.5
6.5
Estimate the total energy use at the lab building and the total estimated savings. Approximately what percentage of the total electrical energy use do these savings represent? 55% 95% 62% 5%
62%
If efficiency of photovoltaic cells improves to 40%, how many square meters of photovoltaic cells would be needed for one person's yearly electricity use? 7.12 m2 11.4 m2 2.85 m2 1.14 m2
7.12 m2
Approximately ________% of all U.S. residents are served by curbside recycling programs, and the part of the U.S. waste stream that is recycled (not including composting) is currently about ________%. 70; 73 30; 30 30; 90 50; 50 70; 25
70; 25
In 2000, how much solid waste did the average person in the United States produce? 220 metric tons per year 770 kilograms per year 190 metric tons per year 840 kilograms per year
770 kilograms per year
Recycling aluminum cans saves ________% of the energy needed to make the same amount of aluminum from virgin bauxite. 95 70 50 25 80
95
Which of the following statements is the best description of the per capita generation of solid waste between 1960 and 2010? Between 1960 and 2010, per capita generation was relatively constant. Between 1960 and 2010, per capita generation of solid waste increased steadily. Between 1960 and 1990, per capita generation increased at a steady rate. After 1990, per capita generation continued to increase, but at a slower rate. Between 1960 and 2000, per capita generation increased. After 2000, per capita generation declined.
Between 1960 and 2000, per capita generation increased. After 2000, per capita generation declined.
Which of the following statements is the best description of the total MSW generation between 1960 and 2010? Between 1960 and 2005, total MSW generation increased at a steady rate. After 2005, total generation leveled off. Between 1960 and 2000, total MSW generation increased. After 2000, total MSW generation declined. Between 1960 and 2010, total MSW generation remained constant. Between 1960 and 2010, total MSW generation increased steadily.
Between 1960 and 2005, total MSW generation increased at a steady rate. After 2005, total generation leveled off.
Of the following renewable energy resources, which one has the highest life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions? Solar power Hydropower Wind power Biomass
Biomass
Bagasse- and sugarcane-based ethanol are major items in the energy resources of ________. Mexico Brazil the United States China the Maldives
Brazil
How is wind energy related to solar energy? Wind energy is the result of the sun's producing wind. Solar energy heats windmills and allows them to conduct electricity. Wind energy produces solar energy. Windmills turn to produce electricity that then increases the sun's power.
Wind energy is the result of the sun's producing wind.
Which of the following actions is required for the recycling loop to be successful? Consumers must purchase only products made in the United States. Consumers and businesses must purchase products made from recycled materials. Genetically modified bacteria must be found to consume toxic components. Corporations must make more products from virgin (raw) materials.
Consumers and businesses must purchase products made from recycled materials.
________ built the first offshore wind farm in 1991. Spain The United States Denmark Mexico France
Denmark
What are the goals of waste management? Developing technology for more efficient incineration Developing management training for supervisors of disposal companies Promoting mid-level managers to high-level managers to more effectively manage waste Disposing of waste safely as well as effectively, minimizing the amount of waste generated, and increasing recovery
Disposing of waste safely as well as effectively, minimizing the amount of waste generated, and increasing recovery
Describe the trends in uranium oxide domestic production from the peak production year to 2005. Domestic production declined dramatically. Domestic production increased slightly. Domestic production increased dramatically. Domestic production declined slightly.
Domestic production declined dramatically.
Which statement about e-waste is accurate? E-waste is biodegradable. There is no financial incentive to recycle e-waste. E-waste contains toxic heavy metals that can leach into the environment. Electronic devices die easily, so few of the devices thrown out in the United States could be reused.
E-waste contains toxic heavy metals that can leach into the environment.
According to the figure, which of the following trends occurred from 1960 to 2000? a decrease in the amount of waste being combusted an increase in the number of functioning landfills a decrease in the amount of waste sent to landfills an increase in the amount of waste being recycled a decrease in the amount of waste produced
an increase in the amount of waste being recycled
Greenways ________. prohibit hiking and biking or recreational opportunities contain parks that are large enough to harbor populations of exotic flora and fauna are links that provide pathways for wildlife to travel between parks and preserves are waterways within city parks are urban golf courses
are links that provide pathways for wildlife to travel between parks and preserves
The bioenergy garden at Georgia Southern University is used to show plants that can be used __________. as landscaping, providing energy-saving shade to homes and businesses to conserve water as biofuels that will not add any extra carbon dioxide into the atmosphere to directly generate electricity from photosynthesis in the leaves
as biofuels that will not add any extra carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
Heavy metals ________. become less hazardous over time as they degrade chemically are not harmful unless they are directly ingested bioaccumulate in animal tissues are unregulated by the U.S. government become less hazardous after incineration
bioaccumulate in animal tissues
The United States consumes more ________ energy than any other renewable energy source. wind geothermal solar bioenergy hydropower
bioenergy
Worldwide, the most widely used renewable energy resource is ________. hydroelectric solar bioenergy nuclear wind
bioenergy
Which of the following consume the bulk of the electricity used in the United States? automobiles buildings street lights tire production
buildings
LEED standards in the construction of new buildings establishes criteria that __________. require that all energy used in the building comes from wind or solar sources conserve energy and water and improve indoor air quality limit construction to the use of recycled materials encourage the consumption of local foods
conserve energy and water and improve indoor air quality
The water reuse system on the campus of Georgia Southern University __________. uses tap water to water lawns and gardens and then catches and reuses any water that runs off of these systems collects runoff water from lawns and parking lots to water lawns and gardens on campus uses water from campus sinks and toilets to water lawns and gardens on campus conserves water by using treated city wastewater instead of city tap water for irrigation
conserves water by using treated city wastewater instead of city tap water for irrigation
Substances that degrade the metals that make up storage tanks or equipment are called __________. alkaline caustic agents corrosives ignitables toxics
corrosives
If current trends continue, the United States is likely to decrease domestic production and increase imports and exports. increase domestic production and decrease imports and exports. increase domestic production and increase imports and exports. decrease domestic production and decrease imports and exports.
decrease domestic production and increase imports and exports.
Which of the following statements about ethanol is true? We can easily grow enough corn ethanol and supply the world's food needs. Growing corn for ethanol requires substantial inputs of fossil fuel energy. We can supply all of the automotive fuel used in the United States if we just double ethanol production. Corn-based ethanol has a high energy returned on investment (EROI) value.
Growing corn for ethanol requires substantial inputs of fossil fuel energy.
Hydroelectric, solar, and wind power are well-known types of renewable energy. Can you identify some of their advantages and disadvantages? Drag the labels onto the tables to identify advantages and disadvantages of hydroelectric, solar, and wind power. Labels may be used once, more than once, or not at all.
Hydroelectric solar and wind Solar and Wind Hydroelectric only Solar and Wind Hydroelectric solar and wind Hydroelectric solar and wind
Why do industries tend to produce so much waste even though it is not the most efficient way to do business? In most cases, there is no financial incentive for becoming efficient. Most of industry is run by disorganized people. It is more profitable to be efficient with waste. Industry ecologists do not recommend streamlining industrial waste.
In most cases, there is no financial incentive for becoming efficient.
As recycling and composting efforts have grown, what has occurred with the annual amount of waste sent to landfills? It has increased. It has decreased. It has disproportionally increased. It has stayed the same.
It has decreased.
What is an urban growth boundary (UGB)? A place in an urban area in which one can grow vegetables. A type of urban zoning act that is specific to Oregon. It is a type of zoning ordinance. It is a line on a map separating regions open to urban development from rural areas.
It is a line on a map separating regions open to urban development from rural areas.
What is the basis for the use of hydrogen fuel cells? It has not been demonstrated to work for powering vehicles. It is an example of a renewable energy source in action. It will result in the release of pollution to the atmosphere. It is extremely energy-efficient.
It is extremely energy-efficient.
What is the greatest limitation for the use of geothermal power? Acid drainage occurs when the hydrothermal fluids are piped out of the ground. The magma burns industrial components to turn turbines in the production of geothermal energy, the combustion of which causes air pollution. Methane occurs with the production of geothermal energy. It is restricted to regions where we can tap energy from naturally heated groundwater.
It is restricted to regions where we can tap energy from naturally heated groundwater.
How is compost used? It is used to enrich soil. It is used as building material. It is used as animal feed. It is used to generate energy.
It is used to enrich soil.
You are a member of a student committee at your college that is evaluating building energy use and potential savings. If your committee finds that your college's potential savings would be similar to those shown for Penn State, action in which area or combination of areas would result in approximately 5% energy savings? Printers and elevator Lighting Computers, printers, and elevator HVAC
Lighting
What prevents the contamination of groundwater in landfills? Locating them at least 6 meters above the water table and lining them with a heavy duty plastic Locating them in layers of impermeable rock Locating them below the water table Locating them in deserts
Locating them at least 6 meters above the water table and lining them with a heavy duty plastic
Which of the following statements about U.S. landfills is true? More than three-fourths of the landfills in the United States have been closed since 1988. It is against the law to build anything on an abandoned landfill. There are more active landfills in existence today than ever before. Landfills should be kept as dry as possible to maintain high biodegradation levels.
More than three-fourths of the landfills in the United States have been closed since 1988.
In 2013, how many millions of tons of U.S. municipal solid waste were either recycled or composted? 250 20 160 90 130
NOT 250
Historically, large cities have tended to develop ________. in locations where explorers first landed within walking distance of hunting and gathering grounds away from large bodies of water that might cause flooding during storms their own agricultural areas within city limits along trade routes
NOT in locations where explorers first landed MAYBE along trade routes
The Neutral Gator program used methods that _____. increased production of carbon dioxide decreased production of carbon dioxide and reduced the amount of carbon dioxide already in the atmosphere decreased production of carbon dioxide reduced the amount of carbon dioxide already in the atmosphere
decreased production of carbon dioxide and reduced the amount of carbon dioxide already in the atmosphere
What is a potential, and likely, drawback to the deep-well injection of hazardous wastes? The wells tend to catch fire. Large buildings must be constructed to house these wells. It is hard to drill very deep into the ground. Well casings can corrode leaking hazardous waste into soil, rock, and gravel.
Well casings can corrode leaking hazardous waste into soil, rock, and gravel.
Which of the following actions would not reduce the per capita generation of solid waste? recycling paper and plastic bottles composting kitchen scraps and yard waste reusing items such as shopping bags and clothing installation of waste-to-energy incinerators reducing the volume of product packaging
installation of waste-to-energy incinerators
Deep-well injection ________. is the EPA-approved method of disposing of low-level radioactive wastes involves putting hazardous wastes into layers of porous rock deep beneath human water supplies has been banned as unsafe by the Department of the Interior is a pool of strong acids on the land surface used for breaking down e-waste is a method of disposing of hazardous wastes in deep aquifers
involves putting hazardous wastes into layers of porous rock deep beneath human water supplies
The Fresh Kills Landfill ________. will remain open until late 2020 is a Superfund site located in Philadelphia is New York's first and only modern sanitary landfill is being converted into a public park collapsed onto a residential neighborhood because it had been filled to too great a height
is being converted into a public park
Hydropower uses the __________ energy of water to generate electricity. nuclear static kinetic potential
kinetic
Wind turbines convert the wind's __________ energy into electricity. potential chemical solar kinetic
kinetic
Which of the following represents the largest waste disposal practice in the United States? landfills recycling incineration composting
landfills
The EPA is charged with cleaning up brownfields, which are ________. agricultural lands polluted by acid and heavy metals desert regions used for unsafe nuclear waste disposal lands whose reuse or development is complicated by the presence of hazardous materials urban areas contaminated by acid drainage from mining coastal sea grass beds damaged by industrial dumping
lands whose reuse or development is complicated by the presence of hazardous materials
All of the following are landscaping features of green buildings EXCEPT: planting deciduous trees to allow light to pass in the winter and shade buildings in the summer. rain gardens that absorb runoff. the use of plants that are native to the area where the building is being constructed. rooftops planted with vegetation. landscaping with AstroTurf in dry environments.
landscaping with AstroTurf in dry environments.
Of the following, ________ are classified as hazardous heavy metals. aluminum, iron, silicon any non-biodegradable materials lead, mercury, cadmium nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium carbon, hydrogen, oxygen
lead, mercury, cadmium
Which type of analysis is performed by industrial ecologists when they examine a product from its beginning as a raw material until its disposal? reverse-engineering analysis life-cycle analysis full-term analysis disposal-tracking analysis
life-cycle analysis
To safeguard against groundwater contamination, sanitary landfills are ________. lined with cement lined with plastic and clay located on industrial sites where groundwater is not used for drinking or agriculture located in unpopulated areas located on slopes so water runs downhill
lined with plastic and clay
From the 1960s to 2005, the trend was that ________ over time. less waste was recovered for recycling less overall waste was produced there have been equal ratios of land disposal, combustion, and recovery less waste was sent to landfills more overall waste was produced
more overall waste was produced
While Kayla is driving along a busy highway just outside a major city, she suddenly comes to a standstill in traffic. For the first time ever, she notices that alongside the highway are stretches of forest and wetland. She hears the noise of frogs and insects and birds that she never would have noticed if not trapped in traffic. Why does Kayla never notice these natural wonders on her route? thermal pollution noise pollution acid rain light pollution
noise pollution
A potential energy source from oceans is ________. chemiluminescent bacteria ocean thermal energy magnetic field generators solar reflection lightning strikes in salt water
ocean thermal energy
More and more wind farms are being located ________ because winds are stronger there. offshore in deserts in the Arctic in mature forests in densely populated urban areas
offshore
Which of the following is an example of a product found in a "throwaway society," such as the United States? reusable cloth diapers paper napkins fine silverware reusable razor blades
paper napkins
It costs less to operate an automobile in a small city than in a large city because ________. automobiles generally cost less to purchase in a small city than in a large city people in smaller cities tend to use mass transit more than they do in large cities parking costs more in a large city than in a small city people generally drive fewer miles to and from work in a small city than in a large city people tend to drive smaller cars in small cities than in large cities
people generally drive fewer miles to and from work in a small city than in a large city
The earthworms, fungi, and bacteria in your compost pile will NOT be happy if you give them ________. grass clippings paper autumn leaves plastic food scraps
plastic
Compared to the use of fossil fuels for generating electricity, wind energy ________. is less renewable produces no exhaust pollutants and contributes little to global climate change is more consistent is more widely used in the United States requires very little investment
produces no exhaust pollutants and contributes little to global climate change
The University of Florida's athletic program became carbon neutral because it _____. replaced all vehicles with electric cars eliminated consumption of all plastics throughout its program and athletic events promoted programs that reduced fossil fuel use and sequestered carbon recycled all paper used in its program and at football games
promoted programs that reduced fossil fuel use and sequestered carbon
The original purpose of parks in eastern U.S. cities was to ________. protect passenger pigeons, Carolina parakeets, and other rapidly declining species provide wildlife sanctuaries within cities provide a European style experience of the beauty and intimacy of formal landscapes provide open places for picnics and games, such as football, cricket, and lawn tennis provide protected places for hunting foxes, birds, and deer
provide a European style experience of the beauty and intimacy of formal landscapes
Which of the following approaches best helps congested cities deal with the problems related to transportation? make the city transportation "bus only" provide access to rail and bus transportation in the inner city or other high-density areas double-deck all roads and have more limited-access expressways build more roads
provide access to rail and bus transportation in the inner city or other high-density areas
The rotational energy of the blades of a wind turbine ________. will not occur unless electricity is provided to generate the motion is used to generate hydrogen from water drives a generator inside the nacelle compartment to produce electricity generates as much greenhouse gases as burning natural gas is so expensive to produce that no commercial development has been possible
drives a generator inside the nacelle compartment to produce electricity
Life-cycle analysis ________. is the study of statistical changes in the human population is an environmental movement designed to reduce municipal traffic and encourage alternative forms of transport defines how different organisms interact within ecosystems examines the life of products to increase efficiency examines the cycling of carbon in the environment
examines the life of products to increase efficiency
Which of the following are documented negative impacts of dams? increased carbon monoxide emissions, decreased rainfall alteration of river salinity acid deposition flooding, habitat destruction, alteration of river sediment deposition increased atmospheric carbon dioxide and CFCs
flooding, habitat destruction, alteration of river sediment deposition
One common way to increase the sustainability of a food system is to buy and consume __________. foods that are grown locally food that is individually wrapped meat instead of fruits and vegetables processed foods that require little to no preparation before consumption
foods that are grown locally
Fans attending University of Florida athletic events are responsible for providing carbon offsets for _____. any use of hot water in the stadium, which is heated using gas all plastic products used in the stadium to provide fans with food and beverages any use of electricity in the stadium fossil fuels used to get fans to and from the stadium
fossil fuels used to get fans to and from the stadium
Which of the following represents the proper ranking of total primary energy consumed in the United States from the greatest to least used? fossil fuels, hydropower, nuclear, geothermal nuclear, fossil fuels, hydropower, wind fossil fuels, nuclear, hydropower, solar renewables, fossil fuels, nuclear, hydropower fossil fuels, hydropower, solar, nuclear
fossil fuels, nuclear, hydropower, solar
Plastic ________. containers from motor oil are recycled with beverage bottles to make new bottles polystyrene is considered a plastic contaminant not made from recyclables is made from renewable raw materials from beverage containers is easily recyclable if uncapped, washed, and flattened from grocery bags is labeled with recycling symbols #1 and #2
from beverage containers is easily recyclable if uncapped, washed, and flattened
All of the following factors have contributed to movement of people to suburbs EXCEPT: better economic opportunities. lower crime rates. greater availability of mass transit. better schools. more space.
greater availability of mass transit.
American cities in the northern United States, such as Chicago, Philadelphia, and Detroit, ________. have maintained a steady-state population since the 1970s have always grown rapidly and continue to do so grew very rapidly in the 19th and early 20th centuries have steadily lost population over the past 100 years have increased their rate of growth dramatically in the past 20 years
grew very rapidly in the 19th and early 20th centuries
What is one problem associated with the incineration of solid waste? leachate the may contaminate groundwater the waste is radioactive hazardous chemicals are often created and released into the atmosphere the volume of waste increases
hazardous chemicals are often created and released into the atmosphere
The urban heat island effect is caused by ________. air warmed over adjacent oceans blowing into urban areas street lighting and burning of wastes in landfills green buildings nuclear power plants venting excess heat into the urban landscape heat-generating buildings and dark, heat-absorbing surfaces
heat-generating buildings and dark, heat-absorbing surfaces
E-wastes are a source of ________. 2 ignitables radioactive materials compostable organic compounds heavy and precious metals acid corrosives
heavy and precious metals
Why does the average U.S. citizen create more waste today than 50 years ago? high rates of recycling higher rates of consumption lack of landfill space lack of composting facilities
higher rates of consumption
The form of energy delivered to an electrical generating turbine in a geothermal facility is in the form of ________. molten magma hot water or steam heated hydrogen gas warm soils and crushed rock radioactive isotopes
hot water or steam
A major advantage of solar power is that ________. the only emissions are carbon dioxide and water it is inexpensive compared to other renewable energy sources solar systems provide local, decentralized control over power all regions are sunny enough to provide adequate power with current technology there is a lack of knowledge on long-term impacts
solar systems provide local, decentralized control over power
Ultimately, all biofuels are ________, because they are the product of ________. polymers; biological metabolic processes solar; photosynthesis synthetic; chemical manipulation of hydrocarbons geological; sedimentation inefficient; decomposition by microorganisms
solar; photosynthesis
What is the term that refers to the reduction of the amount of waste entering the waste stream? inventory source reduction liquidation recycling
source reduction
The first stage in generating power from a hydrogen fuel cell is to ________. reduce water to hydrogen and oxygen gases convert water into a hydrocarbon split hydrogen atoms into hydrogen ions (H+) and electrons react water with CO2 split methane (CH4) into hydrogen atoms and carbon
split hydrogen atoms into hydrogen ions (H+) and electrons
Ethanol produced from bioenergy starts with ________ produced by ________. hydrogen gas; wind turbines starch; corn or sugar cane CO2; burning fossil fuels ammonia; anaerobic bacteria methane; sewage sludge
starch; corn or sugar cane
The birth of __________ initiated the phenomenon of the sprawls. schools farms suburbs cities
suburbs
What are smaller communities that surround cities called? urban growth boundaries suburbs highways towns
suburbs
Mass transit systems include all of the following EXCEPT: commuter rail. buses. light rail. taxicabs. subways.
taxicabs.
What does the red line on the graph represent? the total amount of solid waste generated by all people in the United States per year the average amount of solid waste generated by each person in the United States per year the period of time in years the average amount of solid waste generated by each household in the United States per year
the average amount of solid waste generated by each person in the United States per year
To determine whether using a food crop as a source of biofuels is environmentally sustainable, one would have to consider all of the following EXCEPT: the amount of water and land necessary for the crops. the amount of fertilizers used and their impact on aquatic ecosystems. the impact on food supplies and prices. the corporate profits that would be made. the amount of pesticides used and their impact on biodiversity and groundwater.
the corporate profits that would be made.
What is the process behind tidal energy? the difference between high and low tides electricity generated by the rise and fall of tides the back and forth movement of the daily tidal cycle waves rushing back and forth as a result of tides
the difference between high and low tides
Passive solar power involves using ________. silicon wafers to generate light energy mechanical devices to heat water and buildings or electrical devices to generate electricity mirrors to concentrate the sun's rays on a tower or a series of pipes holding water photovoltaic cells to produce light energy the energy of sunlight without relying on electrical or mechanical devices
the energy of sunlight without relying on electrical or mechanical devices (I think)
This figure shows the population of Portland, Oregon, from 1850 to 2015. What is the explanation for the population trend from 1950 to 1980? the preservation of sensitive habitat within Portland's borders the downturn of Portland's economy caused by the crash of the stock market the adoption of urban growth regulations that prohibited population growth growth driven by the shipping trade the exodus of residents to the suburbs
the exodus of residents to the suburbs
How can solid waste incineration be of benefit? it can be used to clean the air the heat from waste combustion can be used to generate energy the fly ash can be used as compost or mulch it can generate methane
the heat from waste combustion can be used to generate energy
All of the following are drawbacks of corn-based ethanol production, EXCEPT: increased use of fertilizers. inputs of fossil fuel energy. increased use of pesticides. depletion of fresh water. the inability to store the product.
the inability to store the product.
One group proposes to convert the base to a new city suburb, with low-cost housing for several thousand of the current inner-city residents. A possible major problem with this might include ________. that there is no guarantee that the buildings are in good condition that the inner-city residents may not be able to fully appreciate the natural areas and miss the inner-city quality of life the highway traffic to and from the city insufficient recreational opportunities for the new suburb the lack of jobs and lack of transportation to jobs
the lack of jobs and lack of transportation to jobs
Volume of waste recovered by composting was insignificant until ________. 1980 2000 the early 1960s the late 1980s 2009
the late 1980s
A city undergoing gentrification is experiencing ________. an increase in violent crimes and an increase in vacancy and abandonment of homes urban decay the loss of working-class people from traditional neighborhoods as housing prices become too expensive an aging population and a declining tax base white flight
the loss of working-class people from traditional neighborhoods as housing prices become too expensive
LDPE is ________. a toxin found in most plastics the most widely recycled plastic the plastic used to make grocery bags not currently recycled banned in Denmark
the plastic used to make grocery bags
What environmental problem is being addressed by the use of bio swales, large vegetated ditches or depressions, on the campus of Georgia Southern University? the production of biofuels used to generate electricity on campus a shortage of water for irrigating lawns and landscaping the pollution of streams by oily runoff water from parking lots the local production of food
the pollution of streams by oily runoff water from parking lots
What is the ultimate source for geothermal energy? the radioactive decay of elements deep within Earth rocks melting into magma due to geysers magma that wells up from Earth's core ignition due to crude oil and natural gas deposits
the radioactive decay of elements deep within Earth
Whether a hydrogen-based energy system is environmentally cleaner than a fossil fuel system depends on ________. the car driven governmental incentives for research the source of energy used to produce the hydrogen the amount of fossil fuels that are invested in long-term storage the source of oxygen used for the process
the source of energy used to produce the hydrogen
Which of the following is a problem that occurs within cities because of the concentrated use of energy in buildings and vehicles and the large amount of dark surfaces that absorb solar energy? global warming noise pollution the urban heat island effect light pollution
the urban heat island effect
As an ecological resource manager, your preliminary environmental studies should include inquiry into whether ________. the financial situation of some potential investors is shaky the city needs to obtain a great deal of revenue from the final choice a new housing development just outside the city limits may increase traffic on the connecting highway the wetlands include oyster beds and shallow estuaries that are habitats for shrimp, crabs, and fish which are supporting many local industries the lake should be provided with docks and a marina for sport fishermen
the wetlands include oyster beds and shallow estuaries that are habitats for shrimp, crabs, and fish which are supporting many local industries
An urban growth boundary (UGB) is intended to ________. help an area retain its distinctive character maintain low housing costs for the average homeowner enforce certain restrictions within neighborhoods provide guidelines for city development to separate areas desired to be urban from areas desired to be rural ensure that businesses do not locate in residential areas
provide guidelines for city development to separate areas desired to be urban from areas desired to be rural
Closing the recycling loop refers to ________. composting of biodegradable plastic avoiding contamination of plastic and paper collectables during sorting purchasing items made from recycled materials finding ways to recycle all plastics, including polystyrene covering landfills once they have outlived their usefulness and converting the sites to public parks
purchasing items made from recycled materials
Which of the following approaches would earn points toward LEED certification? building a children's cancer hospital building with mahogany imported from Brazil building on a golf course building near a school recycling all construction wastes
recycling all construction wastes
Industrial ecologists ________. advocate for taxes on green industries urge an emphasis on internal manufacturing costs rather than external costs favor an economy that moves linearly rather than circularly redesign industrial systems to maximize physical and economic efficiency primarily analyze industrial inputs
redesign industrial systems to maximize physical and economic efficiency
The best solution to the solid waste problem is to ________. reduce the amount of material that enters the waste stream subsidize WTE facilities increase the number of WTE facilities increase the number of sanitary landfills increase the number of oceanic burial sites
reduce the amount of material that enters the waste stream
What is the goal of an industrial ecologist? reduce the waste in industrial systems to save endangered species to increase expenditures in industry in order to generate more landfill space to make industry more profitable regardless of environmental impact
reduce the waste in industrial systems
RCRA is a U.S. law enacted in the 1970s to ________. regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants restrict use of off-road vehicles in national parks reduce environmental levels of the 12 most toxic chemicals, called the "dirty dozen" protect endangered species regulate how hazardous waste is handled
regulate how hazardous waste is handled
Which of the following follows the philosophy of "building up, not out"? subdivisions unbridled growth smart growth sprawl
smart growth
Harvesting fuelwood at unsustainably high rates often leads to ________. removal of pest insect species higher levels of plant biodiversity more land being available for corn fields soil erosion and desertification increases in soil fertility
soil erosion and desertification
Which of the following would be characteristic of sprawl? an empty, ruined temple surrounded by nothing but grasslands and herds of wild animals a few single-family dwellings near the edge of an enormous forest, adjacent to some cabbage farms and a small town situated 15 miles to the north widely spaced homes spread evenly across a vast tract of land a state university surrounded by miles and miles of businesses and dwellings housed in large multi-story structures
widely spaced homes spread evenly across a vast tract of land
The practice of classifying areas for different types of development and land use is referred to as ________. zoning boundary-setting green-washing urbanism deregulation
zoning
What practice classifies areas for different types of land use? smart growth technologies sprawl zoning urban growth boundaries
zoning
How many MWh per year of savings are possible for HVAC? 1,500 MWh 1,000 MWh 1,050 MWh 1,100 MWh
1,500 MWh
Based on the yearly average values, calculate the solar radiation per square meter for one year. 130 kWh per year 4,440 kWh per year 1,560 kWh per year 370 kWh per year
1,560 kWh per year
What is the difference between the amount of paper within the waste stream before and after recycling/composting? 1.2% 12.3% 16.2% 27.4%
12.3%
Commercially available household photovoltaic systems cost approximately $20,000. The average cost of electricity in the United States is approximately $0.09 per kilowatt hour. At these prices how long would it take for the photovoltaic system to generate $20,000 of electricity? Assume the system will produce enough kilowatt hours for a four-person household in Topeka, Kansas. 12.5 years 35 years 50 years 0.1 year
12.5 years
Which decade was associated with the greatest percentage increase in the amount of waste disposed of in landfills? 1960s 1990s 2000s 1970s 1980s
1960s
In what year did uranium oxide production peak in the United States? 1950 1980 1960 1970
1980
The student report estimated $45,500 in electricity savings. What was the approximate cost of electricity in cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) used to calculate this savings? 27 cents per kWh $2.70 per kWh 0.027 cents per kWh 2.7 cents per kWh
2.7 cents per kWh
Why is there little to no growth expected for hydropower? Too much pollution is generated when the dams are in operation. The cost of generating power is much too high. Hydropower uses a nonrenewable resource that is quickly being depleted. Almost all rivers that can be dammed for power generation have been dammed already.
Almost all rivers that can be dammed for power generation have been dammed already.
Which of the following can be inferred from the data shown in parts (a) and (b) of the figure? Pickup trucks are more energy efficient than SUVs. Pickup trucks are only about half as energy efficient as SUVs. Buses are inefficient when there are few people riding on them. In most cities, public mass transit systems are too expensive to be a viable long-term strategy for decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Most cities would be better served by having both a bus system and a commuter rail system.
Buses are inefficient when there are few people riding on them.
________ can contaminate wastepaper and decrease the value of collected paper and cardboard. Cereal boxes Office papers Paper shopping bags Corrugated cardboard boxes Newspapers
Cereal boxes
________ is the conversion of organic waste into mulch or humus. Composting Injecting Reusing Compacting Cogeneration
Composting
__________ is the process of recovering organic waste through decomposition. Recovery Recycling Composting Combustion
Composting
What sort of threat does wind energy pose to certain kinds of wildlife? The force of the wind emitted can divert the flight path of birds and other flying animals. Flying creatures such as birds and bats are killed when they fly into wind turbine blades. Wires leading to the nacelle are often exposed, and this can shock creatures such as squirrels. The towers can topple during storms.
Flying creatures such as birds and bats are killed when they fly into wind turbine blades.
Which of the following statements is NOT accurate regarding geothermal power? Geothermal power generators are one of the true fully sustainable energy sources. Geothermal power can deplete groundwater sources. Geothermal power reduces but does not eliminate emissions. Geothermal energy can be used as heat exchangers for heat pumps for homes and businesses.
Geothermal power generators are one of the true fully sustainable energy sources.
Pat and Terry are considering moving from near the center of a large city into the suburbs. Which of the following discussion points is valid? If they stay in the city, they will contribute more to local pollution. If they stay in the city, they'll probably get less exercise. It will be easier to have a place for a vegetable garden if they move to the suburbs. They'll experience more stress if they move to the suburbs. If they move to the suburbs, it will cost much less for transportation.
It will be easier to have a place for a vegetable garden if they move to the suburbs.
Hydroelectric power accounts for approximately how much of the world's electricity production? One-half One-sixth Two-thirds One-third
One-sixth
What is the largest component of the U.S. municipal solid waste stream? Yard waste All varieties of plastics Metals Paper and paper products
Paper and paper products
From the 1950s to the 1970s many cities experienced a loss in population as people left for the suburbs. Which one of the following is not a factor that led to this migration? Government subsidies built highways, making commuting from the suburbs into the cities easier. Cities experienced a rise in unemployment and crime. People sought out the better public transportation options present in the suburbs. People liked the room and privacy of the larger houses and lots in the suburbs.
People sought out the better public transportation options present in the suburbs.
Which of the following types of hazardous waste are unstable and pose dangers when in contact with other compounds? Ignitable Corrosive Reactive Toxic
Reactive
Which of the following is not something urban-sustainability advocates suggest that cities follow using ecosystem-centered models? Reduce recycling initiatives Use locally produced resources Encourage urban agriculture Improve the soil through organic waste and wastewater techniques
Reduce recycling initiatives
Which of the following is the best description of sprawl? Spacious lots in residential tracts that spread over large areas but are far from urban centers and commercial amenities People using too much land to build new housing Pollution from cities negatively impacting rural communities Cities increasing in size
Spacious lots in residential tracts that spread over large areas but are far from urban centers and commercial amenities
What is an abandoned waste site that poses a direct threat to health and the environment, designated to have U.S. government funds applied to its cleanup? Superfund site hazardous waste site landfill leachate-producing site surface impoundment site
Superfund site
Which of the following statements is true regarding sustainable cities? Sustainable cities usually have problems with sewage treatment. Sustainable cities do not typically limit sprawl. Sustainable cities tend to be livable cities that provide a good quality of life for their residents. Sustainable cities usually have more garbage accumulation.
Sustainable cities tend to be livable cities that provide a good quality of life for their residents.
What is specifically restricted outside of urban growth boundaries (UGBs) as mentioned in the video concerning the UGS put into place in 2007? Select all that apply. The 2007 UGB restricts development that is on a large scale or that impacts sensitive natural areas outside its boundaries. Water use is restricted through rationing. Population size is restricted according to zoning ordinances. Farming is restricted outside the UGB boundary.
The 2007 UGB restricts development that is on a large scale or that impacts sensitive natural areas outside its boundaries. Water use is restricted through rationing.
How is the generation of municipal solid waste likely to change in the next 20 years? Total municipal waste generation will continue at its current rate. Per capita generation of waste will continue to decline. Total municipal waste generation will decline. The answer cannot be determined from the graph.
The answer cannot be determined from the graph.
How did the University of Florida help address the problem of global warming? The athletic program eliminated all carbon emissions. The athletic program collected money during games to recycle newspapers and plastics. The athletic program used solar energy during games to remove carbon dioxide from the air. The athletic program reduced local energy consumption and planted trees.
The athletic program reduced local energy consumption and planted trees.
How can an engineered cover on landfills reduce decomposition of the trash? The cover causes paper to bond to plastic in the landfill. The cover keeps the landfill dry, which decreases the ability of bacteria to decompose trash. The cap prevents hawks and blue jays from decomposing the trash. The cover keeps the landfill moist on the inside, preventing decomposition.
The cover keeps the landfill dry, which decreases the ability of bacteria to decompose trash.
How does planting trees offset carbon generated by the University of Florida athletic program? The planted trees will be cut down to produce paper products for the athletic program. The planted trees will be burned to generate electricity for the athletic program. The planted trees will be cut down to produce construction materials for the athletic program. The planted trees will sequester carbon dioxide from the air as they grow.
The planted trees will sequester carbon dioxide from the air as they grow.
How is the sun's energy production different from the process in which energy is produced in current nuclear power plants? The sun releases energy through nuclear fusion, whereas our current nuclear power technology releases energy through nuclear fission. The sun releases energy through nuclear fission, whereas our current nuclear power technology releases energy through nuclear fusion. Both the sun and nuclear power plants release energy through the chemical reaction of uranium and hydrogen. Both the sun and nuclear power plants release energy through the chemical reaction of hydrogen and helium.
The sun releases energy through nuclear fusion, whereas our current nuclear power technology releases energy through nuclear fission.
Between 2000 and 2010, per capita generation of solid waste declined, but the total amount of MSW remained relatively constant. What caused the difference in these two trends? The amount of industrial waste was increasing. Per capita generation of waste is not included in the figures for total MSW generation. The total population was increasing. The answer cannot be determined from this graph.
The total population was increasing.
________ strongly influences the amount of energy generated from hydropower. The temperature of water in the boiler and turbine The temperature of reservoir water The volume of water released and the height of the fall Latitude The phase of the moon
The volume of water released and the height of the fall Latitude
LEED-certified buildings could be described by all of the following EXCEPT: They limit pollution and recycle wastes. Their construction usually costs less than for conventional buildings. They have a reduced ecological footprint. They are built with sustainable materials. They are energy efficient.
Their construction usually costs less than for conventional buildings.
Paper and plastic waste share which of the following characteristics? Both are more than 90% recycled in the United States. They readily degrade in landfills. Their increased consumption leads to increased waste. They are both made from petrochemicals. They cannot be incinerated to produce energy.
Their increased consumption leads to increased waste.
What is one of the major concerns for using hydrogen as a fuel source? There are concerns that hydrogen gas could deplete stratospheric ozone. Although hydrogen can be burned, we have no way of converting it to electricity efficiently. Like fossil fuels, below-ground hydrogen deposits are a limited resource. There are few ways to generate hydrogen, so it may be limited in availability. Provide Feedback
There are concerns that hydrogen gas could deplete stratospheric ozone.
What do chromium, mercury, copper, and tin have in common? They are all gases. They are all corrosive materials. They are ignitable. They are heavy metals.
They are heavy metals.
Which of the following is true regarding zoning laws? They discourage sprawl. They can encourage sprawl. They have been outlawed in most cities. They encourage sustainability.
They can encourage sprawl.
Which of the following is one of the three current major drawbacks of solar energy? It emits radiation. Certain greenhouse gases are emitted with its use. This resource is intermittent in nature. The resource is nonrenewable.
This resource is intermittent in nature.
What are green buildings? buildings constructed out of sustainable materials, which limit the use of energy and water, minimize health impacts, control pollution, and recycle waste inexpensively constructed buildings that help save taxpayers a lot of money buildings painted green to help reflect sunlight buildings covered in vines and plant life that enable energy-efficient cooling and heating as well as providing food
buildings constructed out of sustainable materials, which limit the use of energy and water, minimize health impacts, control pollution, and recycle waste
Passive solar energy collection includes which of the following technologies? buildings designed and building materials chosen to maximize their direct absorption of sunlight solar ovens heating of water using solar panels panels installed on roofs of houses
buildings designed and building materials chosen to maximize their direct absorption of sunlight
The best way to reduce plastic in landfills is to ________. reuse beverage bottles use biodegradable plastic items increase use of recycled items urge the government to pass more bottle bills buy products produced locally with minimal packaging
buy products produced locally with minimal packaging
How can consumers decrease waste generation? by purchasing goods with the Energy Star label by choosing minimally packaged goods by choosing to purchase only imported goods by choosing to buy locally made goods
by choosing minimally packaged goods
Recently, how has Germany reduced its dependence on fossil fuels? by subsidizing the hydraulic fracturing production in oil shale deposits by mass producing biogas resources by utilizing the feed-in tariff system by utilizing fusion power
by utilizing the feed-in tariff system
Biodiesel ________. can be used in vehicles with diesel engines without engine modification produces more pollution than conventional diesel is the most common type of diesel in the United States is produced from sugarcane is twice as expensive as conventional diesel
can be used in vehicles with diesel engines without engine modification
Although photovoltaic electricity is considered a "clean" power source, one issue with this electricity is that it ________. will be replaced shortly with other sources of power for homes is not sufficiently understood is less efficient than fossil fuels is dangerous if stored too long cannot be stored easily in large quantities
cannot be stored easily in large quantities
Which of the following occupations is tasked with designing cities in such a way as to maximize their efficiency, functionality, and beauty? member of the zoning commission ecologist regional planner city planner
city planner
The role of zoning is to ________. promote urbanization classify areas for different types of urban development and land use promote taxation according to land use integrate agriculture with urban land use run city governments like the federal government
classify areas for different types of urban development and land use
The conversion of organic waste to mulch or humus usable for enriching soil by encouraging natural biological processes of decomposition in a controlled manner is called __________. composting compromising composition combustion
composting
Which of the following statements are supported by the graph? Select all that apply. In 2050, rural populations in less developed regions are projected to drop below 3 billion. Rural populations are projected to drop in both more developed and less developed regions. In 2050, urban populations in less developed regions are projected to reach 5 billion. In 1950, urban populations in more developed regions and less developed regions were almost equal. Urban populations are growing because more people are moving from farms to cities. Urban growth in more developed regions is projected to be faster than urban growth in less developed regions.
in 1950, urban populations is more developed regions and less developed regions were almost equal in 2050, rural populations in less developed regions are projected to drop below 3 billion rural populations are projected to drop in both more developed and less developed regions in 2050, urban populations in less developed regions are projected to reach 5 billion
Worldwide, the fastest growing cities today are mostly ________. the megacities such as Tokyo, Mexico City, and New York City in developing nations, such as Delhi, India large cities worldwide, such as Paris, London, and Los Angeles small cities in the southern United States, such as Austin, Texas, and Raleigh, North Carolina cities in the northern United States, such as Chicago, Illinois, and Portland, Oregon
in developing nations, such as Delhi, India
Urban sprawl typically results in ________. increased commuting distances increased population densities high-density housing outside of the central city decreased reliance on automobiles narrower highways
increased commuting distances
How can urbanization threaten communities and landscapes? increased crime increased population growth climate change increased traffic jams
increased traffic jams
Suburban living encourages ________. driving electric cars investment in and improvement of downtown centers walking, riding bicycles, and other kinds of physical activity increased agricultural activities increased use of automobiles
increased use of automobiles
Which of the following was most influential in shifting the population of developed countries from the farms to the cities? light rail systems more farmland available per capita industrialization Catholicism
industrialization
Of the following, ________ produce(s) the largest amount of hazardous waste. households agriculture industry building demolitions utilities
industry
Which of the following sectors produces the most hazardous waste? grocery stores residential small businesses industry
industry
All of the following are considered to define types of hazardous waste except ________. reactive inert ignitable corrosive toxic
inert
What is the goal of "new urbanism"? to create functional neighborhoods in which most of a family's needs can be met close to home without the use of a car to provide modern urban attractions (high-speed Internet, cultural institutions, and so on) to rural areas so people will return to a rural lifestyle to improve quality of life by separating residential areas from all other types of development to shift transportation planning away from SUV-sized vehicles to accommodate hybrid cars
to create functional neighborhoods in which most of a family's needs can be met close to home without the use of a car
What does the left y-axis represent? total generation of municipal solid waste, in metric tons per year total generation of municipal solid waste, in kilograms per year per capita generation of municipal solid waste, in metric tons per year per capita generation of municipal solid waste, in kilograms per year
total generation of municipal solid waste, in metric tons per year
Since 2009, for the first time ever, more people in the world are living in __________ areas than __________ areas. developed; urban rural; urban developed; developing urban; rural
urban; rural
People who seek to improve resource sustainability of our cities urge us to ________. use zoning and taxation to promote livable cities find a balance between imports and exports of resources maintain a steady pattern of growth and development use renewable energy sources and recycle materials oppose strict limits on growth (UGBs)
use renewable energy sources and recycle materials
Which of the following methods would be considered a type of passive solar energy collection? rooftop flat-plate solar collectors photovoltaic cells using heat-absorbing construction materials ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) rooftop solar panels
using heat-absorbing construction materials
Photovoltaic technology is best described as ________. using sunlight to directly generate electricity a passive solar technology using mirrors to concentrate sunlight, in order to heat water and produce steam for electricity generation using the sun's energy to warm a room without mechanical devices trapping the sun's heat and storing it for various uses
using sunlight to directly generate electricity
What sort of waste is predominantly generated by U.S. industrial facilities? heavy metals organic wastewater radioactive
wastewater
What two waste products are produced by hydrogen fuel cells? carbon dioxide and water hydrogen and oxygen oxygen and heat water and heat
water and heat
What sort of process converts the mechanized energy in the ocean into electricity? ocean thermal energy conversion wave energy geothermal energy fuel cells
wave energy