Unit 16: Environmental Chemistry

11. Which of the following is a greenhouse gas that also contributes to ozone depletion?

a) Nitrous oxide
b) Carbon dioxide
c) Methane
d) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Answer: d) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

12. The term “biodegradable” refers to materials that:

a) Are resistant to decay
b) Can be broken down by microorganisms
c) Do not decompose
d) Release toxic gases
Answer: b) Can be broken down by microorganisms

13. Which chemical is commonly used in water treatment to disinfect and kill bacteria?

a) Chlorine
b) Ammonia
c) Sulfur dioxide
d) Ozone
Answer: a) Chlorine

14. The term “carbon footprint” refers to:

a) The total amount of carbon dioxide emitted by an individual or organization
b) The amount of carbon stored in the soil
c) The carbon content in a product
d) The area of forest affected by carbon emissions
Answer: a) The total amount of carbon dioxide emitted by an individual or organization

15. Which of the following is a consequence of global warming?

a) Decrease in sea levels
b) Increase in polar ice caps
c) Rise in sea levels
d) Cooling of the Earth’s surface
Answer: c) Rise in sea levels

16. The main pollutant responsible for smog formation is:

a) Sulfur dioxide
b) Nitrogen oxides
c) Carbon monoxide
d) Particulate matter
Answer: b) Nitrogen oxides

17. The “hole” in the ozone layer is primarily observed over which continent?

a) Asia
b) Europe
c) Africa
d) Antarctica
Answer: d) Antarctica

18. The process of converting waste materials into reusable materials is known as:

a) Incineration
b) Landfilling
c) Recycling
d) Composting
Answer: c) Recycling

19. Which of the following pollutants is primarily responsible for respiratory problems in urban areas?

a) Carbon monoxide
b) Ozone
c) Lead
d) Nitrogen dioxide
Answer: d) Nitrogen dioxide

20. A “sustainable” practice is one that:

a) Depletes natural resources
b) Causes environmental degradation
c) Meets present needs without compromising future generations
d) Increases pollution
Answer: c) Meets present needs without compromising future generations