So You Think You Know Environmental Biotechnology Now?

Living in an area where air is not or minimally purified can have several negative effects on health. Shorter life expectancy is one of these effects, as exposure to pollutants in the air can lead to respiratory problems and other illnesses that can shorten one's lifespan. Additionally, higher disease and sickness rates are another consequence, as the presence of pollutants in the air can weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Therefore, the correct answer is "Just A and C" because both shorter life expectancy and higher disease and sickness rates are effects of living in an area with poor air quality.

Bioremediation is a process where microorganisms are introduced into a polluted area to break down and remove pollutants. These microorganisms can destroy pollutants, such as harmful chemicals or hydrocarbons, and convert them into smaller, harmless by-products. Additionally, during bioremediation, microorganisms can also produce CO2 and inorganic salts as part of their metabolic processes. Therefore, all of the given options are correct, as bioremediation can help purify the air, water, and soil by destroying pollutants, converting dangerous hydrocarbons, and producing CO2 and inorganic salts.

Ex Situ soil treatment refers to the process of removing soil from its original location and treating it at a different site, such as a bioreactor. This method is used when the contaminated soil cannot be effectively treated in situ, or in its original place. Ex Situ treatment allows for better control and management of the treatment process, as well as the ability to treat larger volumes of soil. It can involve various techniques such as bioremediation, thermal desorption, or soil washing, depending on the specific contaminants present in the soil.

During bioremediation, microorganisms break down harmful materials. This process can result in the production of CO2, smaller hydrocarbon chains, and inorganic salts as byproducts.

The correct answer is "All Of The Above" because bioremediation is a process that uses microorganisms to break down and remove pollutants from water. This process can be applied to various bodies of water, including lakes, oceans, and rivers. Therefore, all of these bodies of water have the potential to contain bioremediated waste water.

Now I know that one was hard, but it is a very important part of the water refining process! Now let's continue and see how much of an environmental biotechnology expert you are!

UVGI stands for Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation. This term refers to the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to kill or inactivate microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and molds. UVGI is commonly used in air purification systems, water treatment, and surface disinfection to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. The UV light damages the genetic material of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing harm. Therefore, Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation is the correct answer as it accurately describes the process and purpose of using UV light for germicidal purposes.

A biofilter or bioscrubber is a system that allows dirty or waste air to enter and facilitates the growth of microorganisms in a pool of water. These microorganisms break down pollutants present in the air, purifying it. The water in the system is constantly moved around by oxygen being pushed in from below, creating an optimal environment for the microorganisms to thrive and efficiently remove pollutants from the air. Both biofilters and bioscrubbers serve the same purpose of air purification through biological processes.

In situ soil treatment refers to the process of treating contaminated soil without removing it from its original location. This method is considered the least expensive because it eliminates the need for excavation and transportation of soil. However, it is more time-consuming compared to ex situ soil treatment methods. In situ soil treatment involves the use of various techniques such as bioremediation, phytoremediation, or chemical oxidation to break down or remove the contaminants in the soil over time. This allows for natural degradation or transformation of the pollutants, reducing the overall cost but requiring a longer duration for complete purification.

The Correct answer is B! It was not until the 1800s that sewage systems were introduced, and not until the 1960s till bioremediation was introduced!