Suppose an electric-generating power plant is about to be built near your house. The local government has not decided whether to allow coal, nuclear, or oil as fuel for the plant (natural gas is not an option). Some groups argue coal is the best choice because there is a 200-year supply and using coal reduces our dependence on foreign oil. Critics argue that burning coal produces three times more global-warming gasses than oil. Coal also produces more dust and expels more acid-rain-causing gases than oil. Others argue that nuclear-generated power produces no greenhouse gases and no other atmospheric pollution. Critics argue that there is presently no long-term location to store the radioactive waste that will be generated and question the safety of nuclear power. Over the life of the
plant, nuclear is the least expensive option, followed by coal and then oil.Which of the earth-system scientist's roles is best illustrated by this paragraph?
A. Ensuring the future of human life
B. Use of earth resources
C. Informing society
D. Alerting public of natural hazards
Answer: B
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Carcinogens cause
a. genetic defects b. birth defects c. Cancer d. chronic health effects e. allergic reactions
If the radiation you received from your X-ray does pose a health risk, how can this radiation cause the greatest harm?
A) Your DNA in cells that were radiated may be damaged by causing mutations. B) Enough of your blood cells in the irradiated region may have been killed to make you sick. C) Your nerves in the irradiated region may have been killed, causing you to lose sensation and control. D) Most of the cells in the irradiated region were heated and killed by the X-ray energy.
In which world region is life expectancy about the same today as it was in 1975?
A) North America B) Europe C) Australia D) Africa E) East Asia
Which of the following describes the mineral processing technique whereby a chemical solution percolates through crushed ore and liberates the desired elements?
A. ionization B. hydration C. smelting D. dredging E. leaching