Unit 6 Practice Questions

Which of these is most likely an effect of carbon dioxide pollution into the atmosphere?

• A) A reduction in the ozone layer

• B) A reduction in photosynthesis

• C) An increase in radioactive wastes

• D) An increase in the greenhouse effect

Answer explanation

D) An increase in the greenhouse effect is correct because carbon dioxide traps heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. The other options do not directly relate to carbon dioxide pollution.

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Wind is becoming more common as a source of energy. Wind farms require large open spaces for the wind turbines. A negative consequence of this technology is wind turbines…

• are an inexpensive source of energy

• cause little pollution to the environment.

• may hurt the flying animals in the area.

• are a renewable source of energy.

Answer explanation

Wind turbines may hurt flying animals, such as birds and bats, as they can collide with the blades. This is a significant negative consequence of wind energy technology, despite its benefits.

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Which statement identifies an energy source as renewable?

• Oil, because it is found underground.

• Wind, because it is always available.

• Water, because it is becoming scarce.

• Coal, because it was formed from plants.

Answer explanation

Wind is considered a renewable energy source because it is naturally replenished and always available, unlike oil, water, and coal, which are finite or becoming scarce.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Select the resources that are renewable.

• oil

• coal

• water

• nuclear

• geothermal

Answer explanation

Water and geothermal energy are renewable resources, as they can be replenished naturally. In contrast, oil, coal, and nuclear energy are non-renewable, as they rely on finite resources or processes.

Why are coal, oil, and natural gas called fossil fuels?

• A) They were once fossils.

• B) They were formed in prehistoric times.

• C) They are used to heat our homes and businesses.

• D) They formed from the remains of prehistoric plants and animals.

Answer explanation

Coal, oil, and natural gas are called fossil fuels because they formed from the remains of prehistoric plants and animals, undergoing heat and pressure over millions of years.

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A homeowner wants to use a renewable resource to heat the home. Which resource would be the best to use?

• coal

• gas

• oil

• solar

Answer explanation

Solar energy is a renewable resource that harnesses sunlight to generate heat, making it the best choice for heating a home. In contrast, coal, gas, and oil are non-renewable fossil fuels that contribute to environmental pollution.

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According to the information in the chart, which statement describes an advantage of using fossil fuels over solar power?

• Fossil fuels stations require less maintenance than solar panels.

• Fossil fuels are less costly to obtain.

• Fossil fuels are an abundant renewable resource.

• Fossil fuels are available regardless of the weather.

Answer explanation

Fossil fuels are generally less costly to obtain compared to solar power, making them more economically viable. Additionally, fossil fuels can be used consistently regardless of weather conditions, unlike solar power which is dependent on sunlight.

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What is the environmental impact of the use of nuclear fuels?

• Nuclear fuel is easily exhausted.

• Nuclear waste disposal is hazardous.

• They decrease the pollution of freshwater resources.

• They increase the emission of greenhouse gasses.

Answer explanation

Nuclear waste disposal is hazardous due to the long-lived radioactive materials it produces, which pose significant risks to the environment and human health if not managed properly.

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Which action represents the environmental consequences of burning coal to produce energy?

• Burning coal increases temperatures in nearby bodies of water.

• Burning coal increases the amount of harmful radioactive waste in need of safe storage.

• Burning coal increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

• Burning coal increases the amount of oil released into ocean ecosystems.

Answer explanation

Burning coal releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. This action significantly increases atmospheric CO2 levels, making it the most relevant environmental consequence among the options.

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Why is natural gas an important resource?

• It is commonly used to clean air.

• It is a cleaner fossil fuel.

• It is extracted easily from the air.

• It is a renewable form of energy.

Answer explanation

Natural gas is considered a cleaner fossil fuel because it emits less carbon dioxide and pollutants compared to other fossil fuels like coal and oil, making it a more environmentally friendly energy source.