Air And Water Pollution! Trivia Questions Quiz
Air and water pollution has caused a lot of dangers to living things worse, even death in some cases. The main reason for these two types of pollution is the improper disposal of waste materials. Do you know which country has the worst air pollution and why? Do you think you are so in touch with your environment in a way that you can answer the air and water pollution trivia questions quiz? Check it out!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following is an example of a nonpoint source of fresh water pollution?
- A.
Pesticide runoff from farm fields
- B.
Leaking toxic waste landfill
- C.
Sewage treatment plant
- D.
Factory waste piped into a stream
Correct Answer
A. Pesticide runoff from farm fieldsExplanation
Pesticide runoff from farm fields is an example of a nonpoint source of fresh water pollution. Nonpoint source pollution refers to pollution that comes from diffuse sources and is not easily traced back to a specific point of origin. In the case of pesticide runoff, the pollution occurs when rainwater washes away the pesticides applied to crops, carrying them into nearby bodies of water. Since this pollution comes from multiple fields and is spread over a wide area, it is considered a nonpoint source.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is the function of the atmosphere's ozone layer?
- A.
Shields Earth from harmful solar radiation
- B.
Provides the osxygen needed by human life
- C.
Protects Earth from the sun's heat
- D.
Removes pollution from the atmosphere
Correct Answer
A. Shields Earth from harmful solar radiationExplanation
The ozone layer in the atmosphere serves the function of shielding the Earth from harmful solar radiation. It acts as a protective barrier, absorbing and deflecting a significant portion of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, preventing them from reaching the Earth's surface. This is crucial as excessive exposure to UV radiation can have detrimental effects on both the environment and living organisms, including increased risk of skin cancer, damage to ecosystems, and disruption of the food chain.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The greenhouse gas carbon dioxide helps to _________________ .
- A.
Deflect harmful radiation from space.
- B.
Increase precipitation in arid areas
- C.
Form clouds in the atmosphere
- D.
Maintain warmth near Earth's surface
Correct Answer
D. Maintain warmth near Earth's surfaceExplanation
Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that helps to maintain warmth near Earth's surface. This is because carbon dioxide has the ability to trap heat in the atmosphere, preventing it from escaping into space. This phenomenon is known as the greenhouse effect. The presence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere helps to regulate the temperature of the Earth, making it suitable for sustaining life.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following products do petroleium resources provide IN ADDITION to energy?
- A.
Aggregate
- B.
Plastic
- C.
Nickel
- D.
Cardboard
Correct Answer
B. PlasticExplanation
Petroleum resources provide plastic in addition to energy. Petroleum is a major source for the production of plastic, which is widely used in various industries such as packaging, construction, and automotive. The process involves refining crude oil to extract various components, including hydrocarbons, which are then used as feedstock for the production of plastics. Plastic is a versatile material that is used in the manufacturing of a wide range of products, including bottles, containers, bags, and many other everyday items.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In which decade were the first important laws passed to decrease water pollution?
- A.
1950s
- B.
1960s
- C.
1970s
- D.
1980s
Correct Answer
C. 1970sExplanation
The first important laws to decrease water pollution were passed in the 1970s. This was a significant decade for environmental legislation, as it saw the establishment of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970 and the passing of major laws such as the Clean Water Act in 1972. These laws aimed to regulate and reduce pollution in water bodies, ensuring cleaner and healthier water resources for the environment and human consumption.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Cars with hybrid and electric motors _________.
- A.
Use more fuels than conventional cars
- B.
Create less air pollution than conventional cars
- C.
Use solar panels for power
- D.
Are no longer produced.
Correct Answer
B. Create less air pollution than conventional carsExplanation
Cars with hybrid and electric motors create less air pollution than conventional cars. This is because hybrid and electric cars run on electricity, which produces zero tailpipe emissions. In contrast, conventional cars typically run on gasoline or diesel, which release harmful pollutants into the air when burned. By using electric motors or a combination of electric and combustion engines, hybrid and electric cars significantly reduce the amount of air pollution they generate, contributing to cleaner and healthier environments.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What is the most important law passed to deal with air pollution?
- A.
Clean Water Act
- B.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
- C.
Clean Air Act
- D.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act.
Correct Answer
C. Clean Air ActExplanation
The Clean Air Act is the most important law passed to deal with air pollution because it sets standards and regulations for controlling air pollution from both stationary and mobile sources. It requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for six major pollutants, and it also mandates the development and implementation of state and local air quality plans. The Clean Air Act has been instrumental in reducing air pollution and protecting public health and the environment.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 has resulted in _________.
- A.
A decrease in the amount of recycling
- B.
An increase in the use of compost
- C.
A decrease in the illegal and unsafe dumping of hazardous waste
- D.
A reduction of the use of fossil fuel resources.
Correct Answer
C. A decrease in the illegal and unsafe dumping of hazardous wasteExplanation
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 has resulted in a decrease in the illegal and unsafe dumping of hazardous waste. This act established a comprehensive framework for the management of hazardous waste from generation to disposal. It introduced strict regulations and requirements for the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste, making it more difficult for individuals and businesses to illegally dump hazardous waste. As a result, the act has played a crucial role in reducing the environmental and health risks associated with hazardous waste dumping.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Compost helps preserve the health of soil because it _____________________ .
- A.
Is a natural fertilizer
- B.
Contains pesticides that kill insects
- C.
Breaks rock down into additional soil
- D.
Adds artificial fertilizers that help plants grow
Correct Answer
A. Is a natural fertilizerExplanation
Compost helps preserve the health of soil because it is a natural fertilizer. Compost is made up of organic materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and manure, which decompose over time and release essential nutrients into the soil. These nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are vital for plant growth and overall soil health. Additionally, compost improves soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity, creating a healthy environment for plants to thrive. Unlike artificial fertilizers, compost is sustainable, environmentally friendly, and does not harm the soil or surrounding ecosystems.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Diesel fuel emissions contribute to what percentage of the cancer risk in the USA due to air pollution?
- A.
35%
- B.
68%
- C.
70%
Correct Answer
C. 70%Explanation
Diesel fuel emissions contribute to 70% of the cancer risk in the USA due to air pollution. This means that the majority of the cancer risk in the country is attributed to the emissions from diesel fuel. It highlights the significant impact of diesel fuel emissions on public health and the urgent need to address and reduce these emissions to mitigate the risk of cancer.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The pollutants from Power Plants directly contribute to 2,800 lung cancer deaths and 38,200 heart attacks annually in the US.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The given statement is true because the pollutants emitted by power plants have been found to directly contribute to a significant number of lung cancer deaths and heart attacks in the US each year. These pollutants, such as particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, can have harmful effects on human health when inhaled. This information highlights the importance of reducing emissions from power plants to protect public health.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Since 1970 american has reduced toxic releases by....
- A.
50 million tons.
- B.
35 million tons.
- C.
15 million tons.
Correct Answer
A. 50 million tons.Explanation
Since 1970, the United States has made significant efforts to reduce toxic releases. The correct answer is 50 million tons, indicating that over the years, the country has successfully reduced the amount of toxic waste released into the environment by this substantial amount. This reduction demonstrates the effectiveness of environmental regulations, pollution control measures, and the adoption of cleaner technologies in industries. It also reflects a commitment to protecting the environment and public health by minimizing the impact of toxic substances on ecosystems and communities.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The Clean Air Act issued certain air quality standards in order to better American air pollution. The Clean air act however has failed, due to expenses for eco-friendly products.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Industries have gone to great lengths to reduce their amount of emissions.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What causes 49% of Air Pollution in Sacramento, CA?
- A.
Corporations and Factories
- B.
Burning Wood
- C.
Cars
Correct Answer
B. Burning WoodExplanation
Burning wood is the cause of 49% of air pollution in Sacramento, CA. This is because wood burning releases pollutants such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds into the air. These pollutants can contribute to respiratory issues, smog formation, and overall poor air quality.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which City has the highest mortality rate caused by FINE PARTICLE air pollution?
- A.
Harriman, TN
- B.
Stubenville, OH
- C.
Watertown MA
- D.
St Louis MO
Correct Answer
B. Stubenville, OHExplanation
Stubenville, OH has the highest mortality rate caused by fine particle air pollution. This can be inferred from the information given in the question.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What is NIEHS ?
- A.
National Institute of Earth, Health and Safety
- B.
National Institute of Environmental Heath Services
- C.
National Insurance,Equipment and High Schools
Correct Answer
B. National Institute of Environmental Heath ServicesExplanation
NIEHS stands for National Institute of Environmental Heath Services. It is an organization that focuses on researching and promoting environmental health. They aim to understand and prevent diseases caused by environmental factors and provide evidence-based information to the public and policymakers.Rate this question:
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- 17.
You can conclude that transportation is the greatest cause of air pollution.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Transportation is the greatest cause of air pollution because vehicles emit various pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which contribute to poor air quality. The combustion of fossil fuels in cars, trucks, and airplanes releases these pollutants into the atmosphere, leading to harmful effects on human health and the environment. Additionally, the increasing number of vehicles on the road and the reliance on transportation for daily activities further exacerbate the pollution levels. Therefore, it can be inferred that transportation is indeed the greatest cause of air pollution.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which pollutant has made the lowest drop since 1980?
- A.
Carbon Monoxide
- B.
Suulfur Dioxide
- C.
Lead
- D.
Nitrous Dioxide
Correct Answer
C. LeadExplanation
Lead has made the lowest drop since 1980. This means that compared to the other pollutants listed (Carbon Monoxide, Sulfur Dioxide, and Nitrous Dioxide), lead pollution has decreased the least over the given time period.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Burning Coal is the largest source of air pollution in China..
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Burning coal is widely recognized as the largest contributor to air pollution in China. The combustion of coal releases large amounts of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the atmosphere, leading to severe air pollution problems. This is supported by numerous studies and reports that highlight the detrimental effects of coal burning on air quality in China. Therefore, the statement that burning coal is the largest source of air pollution in China is true.Rate this question:
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- 20.
This air pollution is an example of _____________________ .
- A.
Acid rain
- B.
Smog
- C.
Non point source pollution
Correct Answer
B. SmogExplanation
Smog is a type of air pollution that occurs when pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react with sunlight. This reaction forms a thick haze that can be seen as a mixture of smoke and fog, hence the term "smog." Smog is typically caused by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and the burning of fossil fuels. It can have harmful effects on human health, including respiratory issues and eye irritation. Therefore, the given air pollution example can be categorized as smog.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Nov 01, 2011Quiz Created by
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