NGS Population Dyn. Sec 3: Renewable & Nonrenewable Resources

What is a renewable resource?

• A resource that is only found in forests

• A resource that is always unlimited

• A resource that cannot be replenished by natural processes

• A resource that can be regenerated or replaced

Answer explanation

A renewable resource is one that can be regenerated or replaced naturally over time, unlike non-renewable resources which are finite. This makes the correct choice the one that defines a resource's ability to be replenished.

Which of the following is a nonrenewable resource?

• Soil

• Water

• Trees

• Coal

Answer explanation

Coal is a nonrenewable resource because it forms over millions of years from decomposed organic matter and cannot be replenished on a human timescale, unlike soil, water, and trees, which are renewable resources.

What is sustainable development?

• Using resources without depleting them or causing long-term harm

• Using as many resources as possible

• Avoiding the use of any natural resources

• Focusing only on economic growth

Answer explanation

Sustainable development means using resources responsibly, ensuring they are not depleted or harmed in the long term. This approach balances economic growth with environmental protection, unlike the other options provided.

What is soil erosion?

• The removal of soil by wind or water

• The process of planting more trees

• The creation of new soil

• The increase of soil nutrients

Answer explanation

Soil erosion is defined as the removal of soil by wind or water. This process can lead to loss of fertile land and negatively impact agriculture and ecosystems, making the first choice the correct answer.

How can soil erosion be reduced?

• By cutting down more trees

• By contour plowing and rotating crops

• By using more fossil fuels

• By increasing industrial emissions

Answer explanation

Soil erosion can be reduced by contour plowing and rotating crops, as these practices help maintain soil structure and reduce runoff. Cutting down trees and increasing emissions would worsen erosion.

What is smog?

• A type of soil erosion

• A method of sustainable development

• A haze formed from automobile exhausts and industrial emissions

• A type of renewable resource

Answer explanation

Smog is a type of air pollution characterized by a haze formed from automobile exhausts and industrial emissions, making it the correct choice. It is not related to soil erosion, sustainable development, or renewable resources.

What is one way to improve air quality?

• Increasing the use of fossil fuels

• Implementing emission control standards

• Cutting down more trees

• Avoiding the use of electric cars

Answer explanation

Implementing emission control standards helps reduce pollutants released into the air, thereby improving air quality. In contrast, increasing fossil fuel use and cutting down trees would worsen air quality.

What is aquaculture?

• The process of planting trees

• Raising fish to eat

• A type of air pollution

• A method of soil conservation

Answer explanation

Aquaculture refers specifically to the practice of raising fish and other aquatic organisms for food. It is not related to planting trees, air pollution, or soil conservation, making 'Raising fish to eat' the correct choice.

What is one effect of deforestation?

• Increased soil erosion

• Improved air quality

• Decreased industrial emissions

• More renewable resources

Answer explanation

One effect of deforestation is increased soil erosion. Without trees to anchor the soil, rain can wash away topsoil, leading to loss of nutrients and land degradation.

What is a major source of air pollution?

• Contour plowing

• Burning of fossil fuels

• Electric cars

• Aquaculture

Answer explanation

A major source of air pollution is the burning of fossil fuels, which releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. In contrast, contour plowing, electric cars, and aquaculture do not significantly contribute to air pollution.