People Important To Environmental Science

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People Important To Environmental Science - Quiz

This quiz reviews 36 famous people who have contributed to our study and understanding of environmental science.


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Has conducted a 45 year study on Chimpanzees plus a lot more...

    • A.

      Rachel Carson

    • B.

      Lois Gibbs

    • C.

      Jane Goodall

    Correct Answer
    C. Jane Goodall
    Explanation
    Jane Goodall is the correct answer because she is a renowned primatologist who has conducted a 45-year study on chimpanzees. She is best known for her groundbreaking research on the behavior and social interactions of wild chimpanzees in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania. Goodall's work has significantly contributed to our understanding of the similarities between humans and chimpanzees, and she has been a strong advocate for conservation and animal welfare.

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  • 2. 

    Argues for the economic benefits of continuous population growth. Thinks that human ingenuity and development are our ultimate resources.

    • A.

      Paul Erlich

    • B.

      Julian Simon

    • C.

      Mario Molina

    Correct Answer
    B. Julian Simon
    Explanation
    Julian Simon argues for the economic benefits of continuous population growth, believing that human ingenuity and development are our ultimate resources. He believes that as the population grows, there will be more minds to come up with innovative solutions to challenges and that more people means more potential for economic growth. Simon's perspective contrasts with Paul Erlich, who is known for his concerns about overpopulation and its negative impact on resources, and Mario Molina, who is a chemist known for his work on the ozone layer.

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  • 3. 

    His essay on the principle of population says that all living things reproduce more than the land can support.

    • A.

      Malthus

    • B.

      Muir

    • C.

      Molina

    Correct Answer
    A. Malthus
    Explanation
    Malthus, the correct answer, is known for his essay on the principle of population. In this essay, he argues that all living things have a tendency to reproduce at a rate that exceeds the capacity of the land to support them. This theory, known as Malthusianism, suggests that population growth will eventually lead to resource scarcity and social problems. Malthus' ideas have had a significant influence on the fields of demography, economics, and sociology.

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  • 4. 

    A hiking trail running through the southeast is named for him.

    • A.

      Sinclair

    • B.

      Bartram

    • C.

      Hornaday

    Correct Answer
    B. Bartram
    Explanation
    Bartram is the correct answer because the statement mentions a hiking trail named after him. This suggests that Bartram is a well-known figure in the southeast region and has made significant contributions to hiking or the outdoors in some way. The other options, Sinclair and Hornaday, do not have any indication of their connection to a hiking trail or the southeast, making them less likely to be the correct answer.

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  • 5. 

    Deeply spiritual environmentalist - founder of the Sierra Club

    • A.

      John Muir

    • B.

      Lois Gibbs

    • C.

      Ansel Adams

    Correct Answer
    A. John Muir
    Explanation
    John Muir is the correct answer because he was a deeply spiritual environmentalist and the founder of the Sierra Club. Muir was a prominent figure in the conservation movement and played a significant role in the establishment of national parks in the United States. His writings and activism focused on the spiritual connection between humans and nature, advocating for the preservation of wilderness areas. Muir's efforts and his founding of the Sierra Club have had a lasting impact on environmentalism and conservation.

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  • 6. 

    First chief of the US Forest Service - Father of American conservationism

    • A.

      Pinchot

    • B.

      Simon

    • C.

      Marsh

    Correct Answer
    A. Pinchot
    Explanation
    Gifford Pinchot was the first chief of the US Forest Service and is often referred to as the "Father of American conservationism." He played a crucial role in the development of forestry as a scientific discipline and advocated for the sustainable management of natural resources. Pinchot's efforts led to the establishment of national forests and the conservation of public lands in the United States. His work laid the foundation for modern conservation practices and his legacy continues to influence environmental policy today.

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  • 7. 

    President who preserved 150 National Parks!

    • A.

      Franklin Roosevelt

    • B.

      Teddy Roosevelt

    • C.

      Jimmy Carter

    Correct Answer
    B. Teddy Roosevelt
    Explanation
    Teddy Roosevelt is the correct answer because he was a president who actively worked to preserve and protect the environment, including the establishment of national parks. During his presidency, Roosevelt set aside over 230 million acres of public land, including the creation of five national parks. His dedication to conservation and his efforts to preserve natural landscapes earned him a reputation as one of the most influential presidents in terms of environmental conservation.

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  • 8. 

    Black and White nature photographer

    • A.

      A. Leopold

    • B.

      H. Bennet

    • C.

      A. Adams

    Correct Answer
    C. A. Adams
    Explanation
    Ansel Adams is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as one of the greatest black and white nature photographers in history. His iconic photographs of landscapes, such as Yosemite National Park, have become synonymous with the beauty and majesty of the natural world. Adams' mastery of light and composition allowed him to capture stunning black and white images that conveyed a sense of awe and reverence for nature. His work continues to inspire and influence photographers to this day.

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  • 9. 

    Director of NY zoological park; Saved the American Bison

    • A.

      Hornaday

    • B.

      Leopold

    • C.

      Pinchot

    Correct Answer
    A. Hornaday
    Explanation
    Hornaday is the correct answer because he was the director of the NY zoological park and played a crucial role in saving the American Bison. His efforts included establishing a captive breeding program and advocating for the protection of the species. Hornaday's work helped prevent the extinction of the American Bison and contributed to the conservation of wildlife in general.

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  • 10. 

    His famous book led to the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906) and the Meat Inspection Act (1906)

    • A.

      Bennet

    • B.

      Commoner

    • C.

      Sinclair

    Correct Answer
    C. Sinclair
    Explanation
    Sinclair is the correct answer because his famous book, "The Jungle," exposed the unsanitary and dangerous conditions in the meatpacking industry. This led to public outrage and pressure for government regulation, ultimately resulting in the passing of the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act in 1906. These acts aimed to ensure the safety and quality of food and drugs, as well as the inspection of meat products, protecting consumers from harmful practices in the industry.

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  • 11. 

    He made us aware that soil erosion is a serious issue.

    • A.

      Darling

    • B.

      Wilson

    • C.

      Bennet

    Correct Answer
    C. Bennet
    Explanation
    Bennet is the correct answer because the sentence states that "He" made us aware of soil erosion being a serious issue. Since "He" is a singular pronoun, it indicates that Bennet, who is also a singular name, is the one who made us aware of the issue. Darling and Wilson are not mentioned in the sentence and therefore cannot be the correct answer.

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  • 12. 

    Wrote Man and Nature (1864), the 1st modern discussion of environmental problems.

    • A.

      John Jay Audubon

    • B.

      George Perkins Marsh

    • C.

      Ansel Adams

    Correct Answer
    B. George Perkins Marsh
    Explanation
    George Perkins Marsh is the correct answer because he wrote the book "Man and Nature" in 1864, which is considered the first modern discussion of environmental problems. This book was groundbreaking in its exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world, highlighting the destructive impact of human activities on the environment. Marsh's work laid the foundation for the modern environmental movement and raised awareness about the need for conservation and sustainable practices.

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  • 13. 

    He wrote Sand County Almanac, one of most respected books on the environment ever published. 

    • A.

      Lester Brown

    • B.

      Aldo Leopold

    • C.

      Barry Commoner

    Correct Answer
    B. Aldo Leopold
    Explanation
    Aldo Leopold wrote Sand County Almanac, which is widely regarded as one of the most respected books on the environment ever published.

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  • 14. 

    He wrote Birds of America in which he painted, categorized, and described the birds of North America

    • A.

      Rowland

    • B.

      Hardin

    • C.

      Audubon

    Correct Answer
    C. Audubon
    Explanation
    Audubon is the correct answer because he is the person who wrote Birds of America, a book in which he painted, categorized, and described the birds of North America. The other options, Rowland and Hardin, are not associated with this accomplishment.

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  • 15. 

    The ant man and more...

    • A.

      E. O. Wilson

    • B.

      W. Bartram

    • C.

      J. Muir

    Correct Answer
    A. E. O. Wilson
    Explanation
    E. O. Wilson is the correct answer because he is a well-known American biologist and researcher who has made significant contributions to the field of entomology, particularly in the study of ants. He is widely regarded as one of the world's leading experts on ants and has written extensively on the subject. His work has helped to advance our understanding of ant behavior, ecology, and evolution. Therefore, it is logical to choose E. O. Wilson as the correct answer in relation to the topic of ants.

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  • 16. 

    An eco-socialist  who claims that capitalistic ideals are responsible for environmental degradation. Came up with 4 laws of ecology.

    • A.

      Barry Commoner

    • B.

      Paul Erlich

    • C.

      Lester Brown

    Correct Answer
    A. Barry Commoner
    Explanation
    Barry Commoner is the correct answer because he was an eco-socialist who believed that capitalist ideals were to blame for environmental degradation. He is known for his work in raising awareness about the impact of human activity on the environment. Commoner developed the Four Laws of Ecology, which state that everything is connected, everything must go somewhere, nature knows best, and there is no such thing as a free lunch. These laws emphasize the interdependence of living organisms and the importance of sustainable practices.

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  • 17. 

    Organized a group of homemakers to fight the toxic waste in their neighborhood (Love Canal) at local, state, federal levels 

    • A.

      Jane Goodall

    • B.

      Lois Gibbs

    • C.

      Alice Hamilton

    Correct Answer
    B. Lois Gibbs
    Explanation
    Lois Gibbs organized a group of homemakers to fight against the toxic waste in their neighborhood, known as Love Canal, at various levels of government - local, state, and federal. She recognized the harmful effects of the toxic waste on the community's health and took action to address the issue. Her efforts led to increased awareness about the dangers of toxic waste and paved the way for environmental regulations and cleanup measures to be implemented.

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  • 18. 

    He’s the minister for Environment Protection in Australia – a really cool bloke.

    • A.

      David Brower

    • B.

      Gifford Pinchot

    • C.

      Peter Garrett

    Correct Answer
    C. Peter Garrett
    Explanation
    Peter Garrett is the correct answer because he is described as "the minister for Environment Protection in Australia." This implies that he holds a position of authority and responsibility in the field of environmental protection in Australia. Additionally, the statement "a really cool bloke" suggests that the speaker has a positive opinion of him, further reinforcing the idea that Garrett is the correct answer.

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  • 19. 

    The first executive director of the Sierra Club - helped save the Grand Canyon from a dam on the Colorado river.

    • A.

      David Brower

    • B.

      John Muir

    • C.

      Theodore Roosevelt

    Correct Answer
    A. David Brower
    Explanation
    David Brower is the correct answer because he was the first executive director of the Sierra Club, an environmental organization. He played a crucial role in the successful campaign to prevent the construction of a dam on the Colorado River that would have flooded the Grand Canyon. Brower was a prominent environmentalist and conservationist, known for his advocacy for wilderness preservation and his efforts to protect natural landscapes. His leadership and activism were instrumental in saving the Grand Canyon from irreversible damage.

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  • 20. 

    President who created the Department of Energy and encouraged conservation and development of energy resources.

    • A.

      Franklin Roosevelt

    • B.

      Jimmy Carter

    • C.

      George W. Bush

    Correct Answer
    B. Jimmy Carter
    Explanation
    Jimmy Carter is the correct answer because he is the president who created the Department of Energy and encouraged conservation and development of energy resources. During his presidency, Carter prioritized energy policy and established the Department of Energy in 1977 to promote energy conservation and research alternative energy sources. He advocated for reducing dependence on foreign oil and implemented policies such as tax credits for energy-efficient technologies. Carter's efforts aimed to address the energy crisis of the time and promote sustainable energy practices.

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  • 21. 

    Professors of chemistry in California that discovered that dissolving Chlorofluorocarbons released Chlorine, which degrades ozone.

    • A.

      Simon and Erlich

    • B.

      Brower and Brown

    • C.

      Molina and Rowland

    Correct Answer
    C. Molina and Rowland
    Explanation
    Molina and Rowland are the correct answer because they were the professors of chemistry in California who discovered that dissolving Chlorofluorocarbons released Chlorine, which degrades ozone.

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  • 22. 

    Contrary to Simon, he thinks that human population growth must be regulated - resources must be used wisely. 

    • A.

      Erlich

    • B.

      Audubon

    • C.

      Hardin

    Correct Answer
    A. Erlich
    Explanation
    Erlich believes that human population growth should be regulated and resources should be used wisely. This suggests that he recognizes the potential negative impact of uncontrolled population growth on the availability of resources. By advocating for regulation, Erlich implies that there is a need for responsible management of resources in order to ensure sustainability and avoid overconsumption. This position aligns with the idea that human actions have consequences and that proactive measures should be taken to address the challenges posed by population growth.

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  • 23. 

    As governor, protected record amount of land in California with which Redwood National Park was  established.

    • A.

      Jimmy Carter

    • B.

      Ronald Reagan

    • C.

      Arnold Schwarzenneger

    Correct Answer
    B. Ronald Reagan
    Explanation
    Ronald Reagan is the correct answer because during his tenure as governor of California, he played a significant role in protecting a record amount of land in the state, which included the establishment of Redwood National Park. Reagan's efforts demonstrated his commitment to conservation and preservation of natural resources, making him the most suitable choice among the given options.

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  • 24. 

    Greatly publicized global climate change as a direct consequence of human action through a movie showing a series of lectures of his climate change research.

    • A.

      E.O. Wilson

    • B.

      Lester Brown

    • C.

      Al Gore

    Correct Answer
    C. Al Gore
    Explanation
    Al Gore is the correct answer because he is widely known for his efforts to raise awareness about climate change through his documentary film, "An Inconvenient Truth." The film features a series of lectures by Gore where he presents scientific evidence and research on the impact of human actions on global climate change. Gore's work has been greatly publicized and has played a significant role in increasing public understanding and concern about the issue.

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  • 25. 

    Declared the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands a national monument. (good)Refused to support the Kyoto Protocol (not so good)

    • A.

      George W. Bush

    • B.

      Ronald Reagen

    • C.

      Jimmy Carter

    Correct Answer
    A. George W. Bush
    Explanation
    George W. Bush is the correct answer because during his presidency, he declared the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands a national monument. This action was considered good because it helped protect the unique and fragile ecosystem of the islands. On the other hand, he refused to support the Kyoto Protocol, which was aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. This decision was considered not so good because it hindered international efforts to address the global environmental issue.

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  • 26. 

    Wrote The Ecology of Commerce, on the impact of commerce on living systems and founded some of our 1st natural food companies.

    • A.

      Al Gore

    • B.

      Paul Hawken

    • C.

      Ralph Nader

    Correct Answer
    B. Paul Hawken
    Explanation
    Paul Hawken is the correct answer because he is the author of the book "The Ecology of Commerce" which discusses the impact of commerce on living systems. Additionally, he is known for founding some of the first natural food companies. Both of these accomplishments align with the information given in the question.

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  • 27. 

    International agricultural analyst for the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

    • A.

      Julian Simon

    • B.

      Paul Hawken

    • C.

      Lester Brown

    Correct Answer
    C. Lester Brown
    Explanation
    Lester Brown is the correct answer because he is a well-known international agricultural analyst for the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service. Julian Simon and Paul Hawken are not specifically known for their work in agriculture, making them incorrect choices.

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  • 28. 

    With her famous book, Silent Spring, she warned about the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides.

    • A.

      Rachel Carson

    • B.

      Alice Hamilton

    • C.

      Lois Gibbs

    Correct Answer
    A. Rachel Carson
    Explanation
    Rachel Carson is the correct answer because she is the author of the famous book "Silent Spring" which served as a warning about the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides. The book, published in 1962, highlighted the detrimental effects of pesticides on the environment, particularly on birds and other wildlife. Carson's work played a significant role in raising awareness about the environmental impact of pesticides and ultimately led to the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States.

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  • 29. 

    His essay “Tragedy of the Commons” shaped the way we manage our renewable resources.

    • A.

      Ralph Nader

    • B.

      Garrett Hardin

    • C.

      Norman Borlaug

    Correct Answer
    B. Garrett Hardin
    Explanation
    Garrett Hardin's essay "Tragedy of the Commons" had a significant impact on the management of renewable resources. This essay highlighted the issue of overexploitation of commonly owned resources, where individuals act in their own self-interest and deplete the resource for everyone. Hardin argued that without regulation or collective action, the tragedy of the commons is inevitable. His work led to a greater understanding of the need for sustainable resource management and the development of policies to prevent the depletion of renewable resources.

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  • 30. 

    Received Nobel Peace prize (1970) for bringing high-yielding, disease resistant wheat crops to starving nations.

    • A.

      Ronald Reagan

    • B.

      Peter Garrett

    • C.

      Norman Borlaug

    Correct Answer
    C. Norman Borlaug
    Explanation
    Norman Borlaug received the Nobel Peace prize in 1970 for his significant contribution to agriculture. He is credited with developing high-yielding and disease-resistant wheat crops, which played a crucial role in addressing hunger and famine in many nations. His work helped increase food production and improve agricultural practices, ultimately saving countless lives.

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  • 31. 

    Left-wing, Green politician who has run for president 4 times. He was instrumental in establishing the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, the EPA, and the Resource Allocation Alliance. 

    • A.

      Ralph Nader

    • B.

      Al Gore

    • C.

      Garrett Hardin

    Correct Answer
    A. Ralph Nader
    Explanation
    Ralph Nader is the correct answer because he is a left-wing, Green politician who has run for president four times. He is also known for his instrumental role in establishing important environmental legislations such as the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, the EPA, and the Resource Allocation Alliance.

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  • 32. 

    Founder of the occupational health field - which was especially important during the rise of the industrial revolution. 

    • A.

      Darling

    • B.

      Hamilton

    • C.

      Bennet

    Correct Answer
    B. Hamilton
    Explanation
    Hamilton is the correct answer because he is recognized as the founder of the occupational health field. This field became particularly crucial during the industrial revolution when the working conditions in factories and industries were hazardous and harmful to workers' health. Hamilton's contributions in this field were significant in improving the health and safety of workers, making him an important figure in the development of occupational health.

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  • 33. 

    His goal was to discover simple living and self-sufficiency  - which he tried to do on Walden Pond.

    • A.

      Emerson

    • B.

      Pinchot

    • C.

      Thoreau

    Correct Answer
    C. Thoreau
    Explanation
    Thoreau's goal was to discover simple living and self-sufficiency, which he attempted to achieve by living on Walden Pond. This aligns with Thoreau's philosophy and his famous work "Walden," where he documented his experiences and reflections on living a simple and meaningful life in nature. Emerson and Pinchot were notable figures in their own right, but they did not have the same focus on simple living and self-sufficiency as Thoreau did.

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  • 34. 

    Established the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) which planted trees, built dams for hydroelectric power, expanded national parks, wildlife refuges,…

    • A.

      Franklin D. Roosevelt

    • B.

      Ronald Reagan

    • C.

      Theodore Roosevelt

    Correct Answer
    A. Franklin D. Roosevelt
    Explanation
    Franklin D. Roosevelt is the correct answer because he established the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which was a program aimed at providing employment to young, unemployed men during the Great Depression. The CCC focused on conservation and environmental projects such as planting trees, building dams for hydroelectric power, and expanding national parks and wildlife refuges. This initiative was part of Roosevelt's New Deal policies to stimulate the economy and provide relief to those affected by the economic crisis.

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  • 35. 

    Political cartoonist who founded the National Wildlife Federation (US Fish and Wildlife Service) and passed the Duck Stamp Act.

    • A.

      John Muir

    • B.

      John Jay Audubon

    • C.

      Jay Norwood Darling

    Correct Answer
    C. Jay Norwood Darling
    Explanation
    Jay Norwood Darling is the correct answer because he was a political cartoonist who founded the National Wildlife Federation and played a crucial role in the passing of the Duck Stamp Act. His cartoons and advocacy efforts helped raise awareness about wildlife conservation and led to the establishment of the National Wildlife Federation. The Duck Stamp Act, which he was instrumental in passing, required hunters to purchase a stamp in order to hunt migratory waterfowl, with the proceeds going towards habitat conservation. Darling's contributions to wildlife conservation in the United States were significant and lasting.

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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

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  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Dec 29, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    Marybeth.knight
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