S&E Asia Geography Environmental Issues (SS7G10a-b)

Which of the following measures is most effective in reducing water pollution in major rivers?

• Introduction of exotic fish species

• Construction of more dams and reservoirs

• Strict enforcement of industrial waste treatment before discharge

• Increased recreational activities on rivers

Answer explanation

Strict enforcement of industrial waste treatment is crucial as it directly addresses the source of pollution, ensuring that harmful substances are treated before entering rivers, thus effectively reducing water pollution.

What term is used to describe the seasonal wind patterns that cause significant rainfall and flooding in Southern and Eastern Asia?

Answer explanation

The term 'monsoons' refers to the seasonal wind patterns in Southern and Eastern Asia that bring heavy rainfall and can lead to flooding, particularly during the summer months.

What is a significant impact of untreated urban sewage being discharged into rivers?

• Spread of waterborne diseases

• Enhancement of recreational activities

• Improvement of water quality

• Increase in biodiversity

Answer explanation

Untreated urban sewage contains pathogens that can contaminate water sources, leading to the spread of waterborne diseases. This poses serious health risks to communities relying on these rivers for drinking water and recreation.

Which of the following is a cause of air pollution in Asia?

• industrial pollutants

• carbon monoxide

• smoke from rural cook fires

• industrial pollutants, carbon monoxide, and smoke from rural cook fires

Answer explanation

Air pollution in Asia is caused by various factors, including industrial pollutants, carbon monoxide from vehicles, and smoke from rural cook fires. Therefore, the correct answer includes all these sources.

What is a primary cause of the Asian Brown Cloud?

• Burning of fossil fuels and biomass

• Deforestation

• Increased rainfall

• Volcanic eruptions

Answer explanation

The Asian Brown Cloud is primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels and biomass, which releases pollutants and particulate matter into the atmosphere, leading to significant air quality issues.

What is the primary reason for the decline in air quality in major cities across Asia?

• Increased use of electric vehicles

• Expansion of urban green spaces

• Growth in industrial activities and vehicular emissions

• Improved waste management practices

Answer explanation

The primary reason for the decline in air quality in major cities across Asia is the growth in industrial activities and vehicular emissions, which significantly contribute to pollution levels.

Which river in India is known for its significant pollution levels due to the discharge of untreated sewage, industrial effluents, and religious offerings?

• the Brahmaputra

• the Yamuna

• the Ganges

• the Godavari

Answer explanation

The Ganges is known for its severe pollution due to untreated sewage, industrial waste, and religious offerings, making it one of the most polluted rivers in India. This highlights the environmental challenges faced by this sacred river.

What is a major consequence of industrial waste being discharged into the Ganges River?

• improvement of aquatic life

• increase in water clarity

• contamination of water affecting human and animal health

• enhancement of river navigation

Answer explanation

The major consequence of industrial waste in the Ganges is the contamination of water, which poses serious health risks to both humans and animals, making this the correct choice.

What are the effects associated with the Asian Brown Cloud?

• lower crop yields

• increased respiratory problems

• reduced sunlight

• reduced sunlight, increased respiratory problems, and lower crop yields

Answer explanation

The Asian Brown Cloud leads to reduced sunlight due to particulate matter, increased respiratory problems from air pollution, and lower crop yields as it affects photosynthesis, making the correct choice all three effects.

Which of the following is a significant contributor to water pollution in Asia?

• Natural spring water

• Mountain streams

• Industrial effluents

• Rainwater

Answer explanation

Industrial effluents are a major source of water pollution in Asia, as they contain harmful chemicals and waste from factories, significantly impacting water quality. In contrast, natural sources like spring water and rainwater are generally clean.