16 - Science, Technology, and Social Perspectives

Question 1

Explain:

How does science impact public health?

Answer 1

Science provides hard data that informs public health policies.

For example, cigarette warning labels, obesity prevention programs and vaccination requirements are all based on research linking smoking to lung cancer, obesity to various diseases and vaccines to disease prevention.

Question 2

List:

4 health issues associated with obesity.

Answer 2

1. Arthritis
2. Heart disease
3. Diabetes
4. Inflammatory damage

These conditions highlight the broader societal impact of obesity, as it increases the burden on individuals and the healthcare system.

Question 3

Explain:

The role vaccines play in public health.

Answer 3

They save lives and maintain productivity.

Vaccination helps prevent the spread of diseases and supports the economy.

Question 4

Identify:

The name of the program that aims to deliver healthier foods to school children in the U.S.

Answer 4

The National School Lunch Program

This program is part of public policy efforts to combat obesity.

Question 5

Identify:

The organization in charge of publishing vaccination guidelines in the U.S.

Answer 5

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC)

The CDC plays a crucial role in promoting public health through vaccination.

Question 6

Define:

pollution

Answer 6

It is the act of a harmful or damaging substance being released into the environment.

The harmful or damaging substance is called a pollutant.

Question 7

List:

The five recognized categories of pollution.

Answer 7

• Air
• Land
• Water
• Noise
• Light

Question 8

Explain:

What typically causes air pollution?

Answer 8

It is usually caused by the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

Common sources include emissions from vehicles and industrial activities.

Question 9

Define:

environmental pollution

Answer 9

The damaging effects to Earth, specifically land, air and water, caused by human activity.

Examples include air, water and soil pollution.

Question 10

List:

Common causes of water pollution.

Answer 10

• Litter (plastic bags and bottles)
• Runoff from fertilizers
• Oil spills
• Disposal of raw sewage

Each of these actions contributes to the degradation of water quality.

Question 11

Define:

physical pollution

Answer 11

It occurs when materials or objects are introduced into the environment, causing toxicity or harm.

Littering is a primary example of physical pollution.

Question 12

Explain:

The role landfills play in pollution.

Answer 12

They contribute to greenhouse gases and can contaminate surrounding soil.

They are designated locations for trash disposal, lined to prevent soil contamination.

Question 13

Define:

chemical pollution

Answer 13

Any harmful chemical being released into the soil, air or water by humans.

Common pollutants include mercury, VOCs, carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide.

Question 14

Define:

Dioxin

Answer 14

It is a chemical pollutant that weakens the immune system and affects seed development in plants.

It is often released from waste incineration.

Question 15

How do pesticides contribute to chemical pollution?

Answer 15

They can runoff into watersheds after application, disrupting biodiversity and harming the environment.

They can also affect the human immune system.

Red tides are an example of chemical pollution. Pesticides and chemicals from farming and factories dissolve in water on land. Runoff flows into the ocean, speeding up algae growth, provoking this phenomenon.

Question 16

Define:

biological pollution

Answer 16

It refers to substances derived from nature that cause human harm.

Examples include pollen and bacteria.

Question 17

Identify:

An example of how biological pollutants can indicate contamination.

Answer 17

The presence of coliform bacteria in water indicates human fecal matter contamination.

This is a critical marker for water quality assessment.

Question 18

List:

Some methods to reduce environmental pollution.

Answer 18

• Using cleaner forms of energy.
• Recycling products.
• Using green products.

These methods help minimize harmful waste and emissions.

Question 19

Define:

Natural greenhouse effect

Answer 19

It is responsible for life on Earth by keeping the temperature warm enough to support life forms.

It involves the trapping of infrared radiation by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Question 20

List:

The main greenhouse gases present in Earth’s atmosphere.

Answer 20

• Carbon dioxide
• Methane
• Water vapor
• Ozone
• Nitrous oxide

These gases are vital for the greenhouse effect.

Question 21

Define:

fluorinated gases

Answer 21

Man-made greenhouse gases that have no natural source and are potent in causing ozone depletion.

They include hydrofluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride.

Question 22

List:

Non-greenhouse gases

Answer 22

• Oxygen
• Nitrogen
• Argon

Earth’s atmosphere is composed mainly of nitrogen and oxygen, which together account for 99% of its volume.

Question 23

Mention:

What percentage of the greenhouse effect is contributed by water vapor?

Answer 23

Between 35-70%.

It plays a significant role in amplifying the effects of other greenhouse gases.

Question 24

How does carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere compare historically?

Answer 24

For the last 800,000 years, it remained below 300 ppm until anthropogenic activities increased it.

The industrial activities have raised it from 280 ppm to 417 ppm in the last 150 years.

Question 25

# List: The main sources of **methane** in the **atmosphere**.

Answer 25

* Digestive processes of **ruminants**. * Slow **rotting** of organic matter. * Human activities like natural **gas extraction**. ## Footnote These processes contribute to its presence in the **atmosphere**.

Question 26

# Explain: The role **oxygen** plays in the context of **climate change**.

Answer 26

It affects the amount of **sunlight** reaching the ground, potentially impacting **climate**. ## Footnote It is not a **greenhouse gas**. **Climatologists** believe **oxygen** levels are reducing in the atmosphere.

Question 27

# Define: renewable resources

Answer 27

**Energy sources** that can be replenished or renewed at a similar rate that humans can use them. ## Footnote **Renewable resources** can be used without fear of them running out.

Question 28

# List: Common **renewable energy sources** that can help reverse the **enhanced greenhouse effect**.

Answer 28

* Solar energy (sunlight) * Wind energy * Energy from biomass ## Footnote These alternatives can reduce reliance on **fossil fuels**.

Question 29

# List: The main consequences of the **enhanced greenhouse effect** on **ecosystems**.

Answer 29

* Habitat loss. * Extinction of flora and fauna. * Altered precipitation patterns. ## Footnote Some regions may become drier while others may experience increased rainfall.

Question 30

# Fill in the blank: The primary **greenhouse gases** include carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor, nitrous oxide, ozone and \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_.

Answer 30

fluorinated carbons ## Footnote **Fluorinated carbons** include **chlorofluorocarbons** and **hydrochlorofluorocarbons**.

Question 31

# Define: Integrated waste management

Answer 31

A **system** that combines **strategies** for both **waste management** and **waste reduction**. ## Footnote **Integrated waste management** includes methods like **recycling**, **reusing** and **composting**.

Question 32

# Identify: The **difference** between *waste management* and *waste reduction*.

Answer 32

* **Waste management** focuses on **managing** created waste. * **Waste reduction** aims to **minimize** total waste production.

Question 33

# List: Three common examples of **waste management**.

Answer 33

* **Burying** waste in sanitary landfills. * **Burning** waste in mass burn incinerators. * **Treating** waste to reduce toxicity.

Question 34

# Mention: The percentage of **municipal solid waste** that could potentially be eliminated through **integrated waste management**.

Answer 34

75-90%

Question 35

# Mention: An action individuals can take to support **integrated waste management** at home.

Answer 35

Set up systems for **separating waste** into categories. ## Footnote This includes designating containers for **recyclables**, **compost** and **general waste**.

Question 36

# List: The 3 Rs.

Answer 36

1. Reduce 2. Reuse 3. Recycle ## Footnote These are strategies to **decrease waste production** and **environmental impact**.

Question 37

Why are the **3 Rs** numbered in order?

Answer 37

There is a **hierarchy of waste reduction**: Reduce > Reuse > Recycle. ## Footnote **Reducing** is the most effective method to minimize **waste** and **environmental harm**.

Question 38

# Define: "**Reduce**" in the context of **waste reduction**.

Answer 38

To **minimize** or **lessen consumption** of resources. ## Footnote This is sometimes referred to as **source reduction**.

Question 39

# Mention: An example of **reduction**.

Answer 39

Building a smaller home to use **fewer materials**.

Question 40

# Explain: "**Reuse**" in the context of **waste reduction**.

Answer 40

**Repurposing** existing resources instead of buying new ones. ## Footnote This includes using items multiple times to extend their life.

Question 41

# List: Some examples of **reuse**.

Answer 41

* Cutting old clothes into cleaning rags. * Donating to thrift stores. * Using a library card to borrow books. ## Footnote **Reusing** helps **reduce** the **demand** for new products.

Question 42

# Explain: "**Recycle**" in the context of **waste reduction**.

Answer 42

Making new products from materials of old products. ## Footnote **Recycling** is the least effective strategy due to system inefficiencies.

Question 43

# Mention: A significant challenge of **recycling**.

Answer 43

Different **types of materials** complicate the **recycling process**. ## Footnote Less than 40% of items in **recycling bins** are actually recycled.

Question 44

# List: Some examples of **recycling**.

Answer 44

* Using a **recycling bin**. * **Composting** organic waste. * Attending **electronic disposal** events. ## Footnote These practices help divert waste from landfills.

Question 45

# Mention: An effective **strategy** for **reduction**.

Answer 45

Eating less energy-intensive food. ## Footnote Purchasing from **local farmers** can also reduce **environmental impact**.

Question 46

# Define: conservation

Answer 46

It is the act of striking a **balance** between **human** use of a **plant**, **animal** and/or **microorganism** and long-term **protection** of that **natural resource**. ## Footnote Conservation is essential for **sustainable use of natural resources**.

Question 47

# Define: Conservation Biology

Answer 47

An **interdisciplinary field** aimed at **halting biodiversity loss** and **restoring ecosystem** functions. ## Footnote Created in the mid-1980s by **Michael Soule** and other natural scientists.

Question 48

# Explain: What does **biodiversity** represent?

Answer 48

The **variety** of animals, plants, microorganisms, ecosystems and genetic variations. ## Footnote **Biodiversity** reflects the **benefits** these **organisms** provide to humans.

Question 49

# Define: A population viability analysis | (PVA)

Answer 49

A **study** conducted to assess **extinction risk** and management needs for species of concern. ## Footnote It includes **levels** of extinction risk, **causes** of decline, future **threats** and necessary **management** actions.

Question 50

# List: The six types of **focal species** identified by **conservation biologists**.

Answer 50

* Keystone species * Umbrella species * Flagship species * Indicator species * Economically important species * Vulnerable species ## Footnote These species help guide **conservation efforts** and garner public support.

Question 51

# Define: Keystone species

Answer 51

An animal that plays a disproportionately **large role** in influencing its **biological community's structure**. ## Footnote Example: Grey Wolves

Question 52

# Define: Umbrella species

Answer 52

An animal that requires a **large habitat area**, where its conservation **aids many other species**. ## Footnote Example: Greater Sage Grouse

Question 53

# Define: Flagship species

Answer 53

An animal that **appeals emotionally to humans** and serves as a **symbol for conservation** efforts. ## Footnote Example: Polar Bears

Question 54

# Define: Indicator species

Answer 54

Its presence **provides critical information** about the **environmental condition** of its community. ## Footnote Example: Frogs

Question 55

# Define: Economically important species

Answer 55

Plants and animals that **humans depend on** for food, medicine, tourism, etc. ## Footnote Example: Cinchona Tree

Question 56

# Define: Vulnerable species

Answer 56

Organisms at **high risk of extinction** due to **declining populations**. ## Footnote Example: Giant Panda

Question 57

# Define: In situ conservation

Answer 57

**Conservation efforts** that occur within the **species' natural habitat**. ## Footnote Includes **habitat protection**, **restoration** and **population enhancement**.

Question 58

# Describe: Habitat fragmentation

Answer 58

A **threat to biodiversity** caused by **human activities** that reduce the size of **natural habitats**. ## Footnote It leads to challenges in finding mates, food and shelter for species.

Question 59

# Describe: Wildlife corridors

Answer 59

Man-made or natural **pathways** that facilitate **wildlife movement** between **fragmented habitats**. ## Footnote Examples include **vegetated bridges** and **riparian zones**.

Question 60

# Explain: What does **restoration** involve in **conservation biology**?

Answer 60

**Reconstructing** the original habitat's soil, water, plants and animals. ## Footnote Example: Coral restoration projects focus on rebuilding and rehabilitating damaged coral reefs to restore their ecological functions and support marine biodiversity.

Question 61

# Define. Ex situ conservation

Answer 61

**Conservation techniques** that occur **outside** of a **species' natural environment**. ## Footnote Examples include **captive breeding** and **colony relocation**.

Question 62

# Explain: The purpose of **captive breeding** in **conservation**.

Answer 62

To **increase the population of at-risk species** and potentially relocate them back to their natural environment. ## Footnote This may involve conducting breeding activities within a large enclosure in the animal's natural habitat.

Question 63

# Describe: **Sustainability** in the context of **conservation biology**.

Answer 63

A state where species can reproduce and maintain their ecological roles without risking extinction. ## Footnote It requires long-term planning and policies from all societal sectors.

Question 64

# Explain: The role **conservation biologists** play.

Answer 64

They conduct **population viability analyses** and implement **conservation strategies** using **in situ** and **ex situ techniques**. ## Footnote Their work aims to increase **species populations** and restore **ecosystems**.

Question 65

Why is **conservation** important?

Answer 65

It is important because **all humans depend on Earth's natural resources to survive**, including for: * Building homes, businesses and roadways * Food production * Medical advancement * Tourism and recreation ## Footnote It allows for the **sustainable use of resources** without diminishing their populations.

Question 66

# Fill in the blank: **Conservation** allows us to use **natural resources** without \_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

Answer 66

diminishing their populations ## Footnote This principle is central to **sustainable development** and **environmental stewardship**.

Question 67

# Define: Wind energy

Answer 67

**Energy** harnessed by **turbines** that spin with the **wind** to create **electricity**. ## Footnote **Turbines** are typically placed in areas with **high wind speeds**.

Question 68

# Define: Hydroelectric energy

Answer 68

**Electricity** produced by the **movement of water**. ## Footnote It can be generated by water flowing through **dams**. The same water can be used repeatedly to generate **power**.

Question 69

# Define: Biomass energy

Answer 69

**Energy** derived from **organic matter** such as plant or animal waste. ## Footnote It can come from burning wood, food waste and crops. **Biomass** emits less **carbon dioxide** than **fossil fuels**.

Question 70

# Define: Geothermal energy

Answer 70

**Energy** extracted from the **heat** in the Earth's mantle. ## Footnote Large **wells** are dug to access hot water deep underground. It is a **clean**, **renewable** and **dispatchable** energy source.

Question 71

# Define: Non-renewable resources

Answer 71

**Energy sources** that are **not sustainable** and cannot be replenished quickly. ## Footnote Once used, **non-renewable resources** will no longer be available.

Question 72

# List: Three common **non-renewable resources**.

Answer 72

* Coal * Crude oil * Natural gas ## Footnote These resources take millions of years to form.

Question 73

# Explain: The primary **difference** between *renewable* and *non-renewable resources*.

Answer 73

**Renewable resources** can be replenished quickly, while **non-renewable resources** take millions of years to form. ## Footnote **Renewable resources** can be 'replaced' easily.

Question 74

# List: The benefits of using **renewable resources**.

Answer 74

* Produce fewer **carbon emissions**. * Slow down **global warming**. * Reduce **air pollution**. * Minimize **water contamination**. ## Footnote **Renewable energy** is essential for mitigating **climate change**.

Question 75

# Fill in the blank: **Fossil fuels** are the primary \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ **resources** that humans rely on.

Answer 75

non-renewable ## Footnote **Fossil fuels** include **crude oil**, **natural gas** and **coal**.

Question 76

# List: The 7 types of **renewable resources**.

Answer 76

* Wind energy * Solar energy * Geothermal energy * Biomass energy * Hydropower * Hydrogen power * Ocean energy ## Footnote These **resources** are **replenishable** on a continuous basis.

Question 77

# Define: Fossil fuels

Answer 77

**Ancient fuels** formed from the remains of living organisms, such as **coal**, **oil** and **natural gas**. ## Footnote **Fossil fuels** are typically **mined** from underground and are hundreds of millions of years old.

Question 78

How do **fossil fuels** form?

Answer 78

Organic matter is buried in an oxygen-free environment, subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years, transforming into hydrocarbons. ## Footnote These hydrocarbons consist of long chains of carbon atoms surrounded by hydrogen.

Question 79

# Identify: The main ingredient in **natural gas**.

Answer 79

Methane ## Footnote **Methane** consists of a single carbon atom surrounded by four hydrogen atoms. **Natural gas** is primarily used in power plants to produce **electricity**.

Question 80

# List: The advantages of **fossil fuels**.

Answer 80

* High energy density. * Low cost. * Abundant availability. * Dispatchable power sources. ## Footnote **Fossil fuels** can be adjusted according to **demand**, unlike **renewable sources**.

Question 81

# List: The disadvantages of **fossil fuels**.

Answer 81

* Air pollution * Climate change * Water pollution * Acid rain * Transportation issues * Non-renewable ## Footnote These factors contribute to their **environmental impact** and **sustainability** concerns.

Question 82

# Explain: What is **acid rain** and its link to **fossil fuels**?

Answer 82

It occurs from **sulfur dioxide** produced when **coal** is burned, transforming into **sulfuric acid** in the atmosphere. ## Footnote This can damage **ecosystems** and **structures**.

Question 83

# List: The primary uses of **oil**.

Answer 83

* Gasoline * Diesel fuel * Jet fuel * Home heating oil ## Footnote **Oil** is processed and separated into various **fuels** based on weight.

Question 84

# List: Two common methods of **coal mining** today.

Answer 84

* Open pit mining * Strip mining ## Footnote These methods involve removing large amounts of Earth's surface to access **coal deposits**.

Question 85

# Describe: The technology that captures **solar energy**.

Answer 85

**Photovoltaic cells** and **solar-thermal** power plants. ## Footnote **Photovoltaic cells** are the blue **solar panels** seen on rooftops.

Question 86

# Identify: A disadvantage of **solar energy**.

Answer 86

Production peaks in mid-day and is **non-dispatchable**. ## Footnote This means it cannot be adjusted according to electricity demand like fossil fuels.

Question 87

# Identify: A major challenge of **geothermal energy**.

Answer 87

It requires expensive **drilling** and is only cost-effective in certain regions. ## Footnote Example: **Iceland** has major **geothermal plants**.

Question 88

# Identify: A key advantage of **hydrogen** as an **energy source**.

Answer 88

When burned, it releases energy with **water as the only byproduct**. ## Footnote **Hydrogen fuel cells** can produce **electricity** with **water vapor** as a result.

Question 89

# Identify: A current limitation of **hydrogen fuel cells**.

Answer 89

Lack of **filling stations** and high costs compared to **traditional engines**. ## Footnote **Hydrogen production** is also energy-intensive.