Lisa Margonelli: The political chemistry of oil

The video discusses the chemistry of oil, its environmental impact, and the political and economic implications of oil consumption. It highlights the historical context of the oil industry, including moral issues and key figures like John D. Rockefeller and Ida Tarbell. The environmental and social costs of oil dependency are explored, emphasizing the need for policy changes. Solutions such as reducing oil consumption and improving energy policies are proposed to address these challenges.

What percentage of the world's oil production is used by the United States?

• 10%

• 4%

• 50%

• 25%

What happens to oil when it hits water?

• It sinks

• It evaporates

• It spreads out thinly

• It solidifies

What is the main component of oil that makes it float on water?

• Benzene

• Hydrogen

• Methane

• Asphaltenes

What is a major environmental consequence of oil spills?

• Improved air quality

• Destruction of marine life

• Cleaner water

• Increased fish population

What is a common perception of the oil industry in the United States?

• It is a morally problematic industry

• It is a clean industry

• It is a declining industry

• It is a small-scale industry

Who was a key figure in rationalizing the chaotic oil industry in the 19th century?

• Henry Ford

• John D. Rockefeller

• Andrew Carnegie

• Thomas Edison

What was one of the outcomes of the Santa Barbara oil spill in 1969?

• Decrease in oil prices

• Increased oil drilling

• Introduction of new oil taxes

• Formation of the environmental movement

What is a significant challenge faced by American families due to oil consumption?

• High public transport costs

• Lack of access to oil

• High gasoline costs

• Limited car availability

What is one of the proposed solutions to reduce oil consumption?

• Subsidize oil companies

• Ban all oil imports

• Implement higher oil taxes gradually

• Increase oil drilling

What is the STRONG policy focused on?

• Eliminating oil taxes

• Expanding oil drilling

• Increasing oil imports

• Reducing oil needs gradually