Green Environment Words Quiz

Finished water is the term used to describe water that has undergone all necessary treatment processes to remove contaminants and impurities, making it safe for human consumption. This process typically includes filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection to ensure that the water meets safety standards set by regulatory agencies. Treated water is what is delivered to homes and businesses for drinking, cooking, and other uses.

Succession refers to the natural process by which ecosystems change and develop over time. It involves the gradual replacement of one community of plants and animals by another, through stages called seral stages. This process can be triggered by disturbances (like fire, flood, or human activities) or can occur naturally as a stable community develops into a climax community, which is relatively stable and resilient.

The cell body, or soma, is a critical part of a neuron. It contains the nucleus, which houses the cell's genetic material and controls its activities. The cell body is responsible for maintaining the cell's health and functionality, processing information, and directing it to other parts of the neuron, such as the axon and dendrites.

Primacy, in the context of environmental and regulatory terms, refers to the authority or responsibility granted to a state or local government to implement and enforce environmental regulations, such as those outlined by federal laws. This concept ensures that regulations are adapted and enforced at a more localized level for greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Incompatible waste refers to different types of waste materials that should not be mixed together due to the potential for dangerous chemical reactions. These reactions can produce harmful gases, cause fires, or result in explosions. Proper segregation and disposal of incompatible wastes are crucial for safety and environmental protection.

Oral toxicity refers to the harmful effects that a substance can cause when it is ingested through the mouth. This term is commonly used in toxicology to assess the potential health risks of chemicals and substances if they are swallowed, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, organ damage, or even death.

An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers and streams meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean. Estuaries are highly productive ecosystems that provide habitat and breeding grounds for many marine and terrestrial species. They also act as natural buffers, protecting inland areas from storm surges and coastal erosion.

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat from the sun. This trapped heat helps to keep the planet warm enough to sustain life. However, human activities have increased the concentration of these greenhouse gases, leading to enhanced greenhouse effect and global warming.

A combustion chamber is a component of an engine or furnace where the combustion of fuel takes place. In the context of waste management, it refers to a chamber in a waste incinerator where waste materials are burned at high temperatures to reduce their volume and destroy hazardous substances. The process generates heat that can be used to produce energy.

Alkaline refers to a substance with a pH level greater than 7. This means it has basic properties, as opposed to acidic properties (pH less than 7). Alkaline substances can neutralize acids and are commonly found in cleaning products, antacids, and certain foods. Maintaining the body's pH balance is important for health.

Gasohol is a fuel mixture that typically contains 90% gasoline and 10% ethanol. Ethanol is a renewable biofuel made from plant materials. Gasohol burns cleaner than pure gasoline, reducing emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. It is commonly used in internal combustion engines.

Instream use refers to the use of water that remains in its natural watercourse, such as a river or stream, for purposes like hydropower generation, fish habitat, recreation, and maintaining environmental health. It contrasts with off-stream use, where water is diverted for uses such as irrigation or industrial processes.

Flowable refers to a type of pesticide formulation that is liquid and can be easily poured and mixed with water for application. These formulations are designed to be user-friendly and effective in delivering active ingredients to control pests. Flowable pesticides are commonly used in agriculture and pest management.

Retrofit refers to the process of adding new technology or features to an existing system or equipment. This can involve upgrading machinery, improving energy efficiency, or incorporating new safety devices. Retrofitting is often used to enhance performance, comply with new regulations, or extend the lifespan of older equipment.

A fistula is an abnormal connection or passageway between two organs or vessels that normally do not connect. It can occur due to injury, infection, surgery, or chronic inflammation. Fistulas can cause complications by allowing fluids or substances to pass between different parts of the body, which can lead to infection or other medical issues.