Japans Ominous Dancing Cats and the Disaster That Followed

In the 1950s, Minamata, Japan, was an idyllic place until mercury contamination from the Chisso Corporation's chemical plant led to severe health issues. Mercury was transformed into toxic methylmercury by bacteria, entering the food chain and causing Minamata disease. The disease affected both animals and humans, leading to severe symptoms and birth defects. Despite the discovery of the cause in 1959, it took until 1968 for Chisso to stop dumping waste. Cleanup efforts began in 1977, but the impact on Minamata's reputation was lasting.

What made Minamata an attractive place to live in the 1950s?

• Idyllic scenery and employment opportunities

• The presence of a chemical plant

• Its proximity to a large city

• A thriving tourism industry

What chemical did the Chisso Corporation produce that led to environmental issues?

• Chlorine

• Methanol

• Sulfuric acid

• Acetaldehyde

How did the Chisso Corporation's use of mercury affect the environment?

• It led to the contamination of the bay with toxic mercury compounds

• It increased the fish population

• It improved water quality

• It caused air pollution

What role did anaerobic bacteria play in the mercury contamination?

• They neutralized the mercury

• They transformed inorganic mercury into methylmercury

• They consumed the mercury

• They prevented mercury from entering the food chain

What symptoms did the residents of Minamata experience due to mercury poisoning?

• Skin rashes

• Digestive problems

• Respiratory issues

• Numbness, high fever, and loss of sight and hearing

What was the main source of methylmercury for the residents of Minamata?

• Contaminated drinking water

• Air pollution

• Imported food

• Fish from the bay

When did the Chisso Corporation stop dumping mercury into the bay?

• 1977

• 1968

• 1962

• 1956