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Environmental Tutorial
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Overpopulation
Greenhouse
Effect
Ozone
Depletion
Acid Rain
Deforestation
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Hunter/Gathering Societies
Home
For much of human history, the population of humans was
quite small. Humans relied on hunting prey and
gathering plants as a means of survival. The small groups
of people would follow the migration patterns of various
animals and picked plants along the way. Since they
rarely stayed in a single area for long periods of time and
food was often unreliable, family groups were small.
Imagine if today, the billions of people on Earth still
followed the idea of hunting and gathering instead of
modern agriculture.
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Agriculture
Home
Since the development of agriculture thousands of years ago, the human population
has greatly increased. Agriculture is the cultivation of animals, plants, fungi and
other life forms for food, fiber, and other products used to sustain life. This has led
to a large increase in the human population as food became more reliable.
Currently there are over 7 billion people on Earth.
Some would argue that because of the large number of resources that humans
consume, the Earth is now overpopulated. Overpopulation is considered the most
serious environmental concern our world faces. More people leads to more crime.
More use of resources. More war. More pollution.
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Overpopulation
Home
In the graph above, you can see the estimated world population up to the year 2025. As long as
the birth rates around the world exceed the death rates, the human population will continue
to increase. Improvements in agriculture, health care, and sanitation has lead to the world
population increase. The last time the human population dropped was around 1350, when
an estimated 50% of Europe died as a result of bacteria that was carried by fleas.
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Overpopulation
Home
In the graph above, you can see the estimated world population up to the year 2025. As long as
the birth rates around the world exceed the death rates, the human population will continue
to increase. Improvements in agriculture, health care, and sanitation has lead to the world
population increase. The last time the human population dropped was around 1350, when
an estimated 50% of Europe died as a result of bacteria that was carried by fleas.
Many environmental problems, such as rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, climate
change, and pollution, were increased by the growing human population.
Back
The Greenhouse Effect
average temp = 57°F
Home
Average temp = -10°F
The Earth and moon are about the same distance from the sun. But the Earth is much
warmer. The reason is simple. The Earth has an atmosphere. The Earth’s
atmosphere traps heat to warm the planet. The trapping of heat is known as the
greenhouse effect.
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The Greenhouse Effect
Home
A greenhouse is a glass building used to grow plants year round, even in cold areas.
Since glass traps heat, the glass acts like an atmosphere. That’s why science named
this warming process on Earth the “greenhouse effect.” The atmosphere acts like a
glass building surrounding the Earth. The heat that is trapped by this natural
process warms the planet. That is very good. So why is the greenhouse effect often
mentioned as a problem created by humans?
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The Man-Made Greenhouse Effect
Home
Naturally, the greenhouse effect is very good. As mentioned, this process warms the
Earth. However, as a result of human actions, the greenhouse effect is out of
balance. As technology has progressed, so has our need for energy. That means the
burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas).
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The Man-Made Greenhouse Effect
Home
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
When cars, factories, and other man-made devices burn fossil fuels, they release air
pollution. A major pollutant released is carbon dioxide (CO2). And this is how the
greenhouse effect is out of balance. For centuries, CO2 has been accumulating in
the atmosphere. This extra CO2 is trapping excess amounts of heat. The extra heat
is causing the Earth’s climate to change. The man-made greenhouse effect is
sometimes called global warming.
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Climate Change (Global Warming)
Home
Choose “allow
content” for the
YouTube video
to play
Why is Earth much warmer than the moon?
Earth is much closer
to the sun
Earth has been struck
by numerous meteors
correct
Earth has an
atmosphere
Since the Earth has an atmosphere, heat is trapped. Because air pollutants such as CO2
are accumulating in the atmosphere, the atmosphere is getting thicker. This means
that extra heat is trapped. The fear is this could alter climate patterns around the
world. This makes agriculture very difficult since climate affects how plants grow. If
agriculture was disrupted, how would that affect the human population?
correct
The human population
would decrease.
The human population
would increase.
The human population
would remain unchanged.
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Climate Change Solutions
Home
There is no one easy solution to climate change. Since our society demands so much
energy, fossils fuels are the best way to provide the energy because of the lower
cost. However, there are steps that everyone can take to help reduce the use of
fossil fuels in their lives. The following steps help reduce the usage of fossil fuels.
Back
Climate Change Solutions
Home
There is no one easy solution to global warming. Since our society demands so much
energy, fossils fuels are the best way to provide the energy because of the lower
cost. However, there are steps that everyone can take to help reduce the use of
fossil fuels in their lives. The following steps help reduce the usage of fossil fuels.
Recycling helps to save natural resources.
Back
Climate Change Solutions
Buy products with the “Energy
Star” label. They require less
energy to operate.
Incandescent light bulbs get hot, which
is wasted energy. Stop using them.
Home
Fluorescent light bulbs waste less
energy and last longer. Buy them.
There is no one easy solution to global warming. Since our society demands so much
energy, fossils fuels are the best way to provide the energy because of the lower
cost. However, there are steps that everyone can take to help reduce the use of
fossil fuels in their lives. The following steps help reduce the usage of fossil fuels.
Recycling helps to save natural resources.
Using energy efficient products at home reduces pollution.
Back
Climate Change Solutions
Home
78°F (or warmer) is
recommended in the summer
to save electricity. Every little
bit helps.
There is no one easy solution to global warming. Since our society demands so much
energy, fossils fuels are the best way to provide the energy because of the lower cost.
However, there are steps that everyone can take to help reduce the use of fossil fuels in
their lives. The following steps help reduce the usage of fossil fuels.
Recycling helps to save natural resources.
Using energy efficient products at home reduces pollution.
Turn up the air conditioning a few degrees in the summer. Or simply open the windows.
Back
Climate Change Solutions
Home
Don’t be lazy. Turn off that
computer when not in use.
There is no one easy solution to global warming. Since our society demands so much
energy, fossils fuels are the best way to provide the energy because of the lower cost.
However, there are steps that everyone can take to help reduce the use of fossil fuels in
their lives. The following steps help reduce the usage of fossil fuels.
Recycling helps to save natural resources.
Using energy efficient products at home reduces pollution.
Turn up the air conditioning a few degrees in the summer. Or simply open the windows.
Turning off electronic products when not in use.
Back
Climate Change Solutions
Home
There is no one easy solution to global warming. Since our society demands so much
energy, fossils fuels are the best way to provide the energy because of the lower cost.
However, there are steps that everyone can take to help reduce the use of fossil fuels in
their lives. The following steps help reduce the usage of fossil fuels.
Recycling helps to save natural resources.
Using energy efficient products at home reduces pollution.
Turn up the air conditioning a few degrees in the summer. Or simply open the windows.
Turning off electronic products when not in use.
Carpooling. Walking short distances. Biking longer distances.
Back
The Ozone Layer
Home
High up in the stratosphere is an area called the ozone layer. The ozone layer protects
life on the surface of the Earth because the ozone layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet
(UV) radiation from the sun. Since the UV radiation is absorbed high in the sky, the
UV never reaches the ground where people, plants, and other animals live. This is
good.
Back
UV UV
UV
The Ozone Layer
Home
Did you know?
Before the ozone
layer existed, all
life on Earth lived
under water.
Ozone layer prevents UV radiation from striking the Earth’s surface
High up in the stratosphere is an area called the ozone layer. The ozone layer protects
life on the surface of the Earth because the ozone layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet
(UV) radiation from the sun. Since the UV radiation is absorbed high in the sky, the
UV never reaches the ground where people, plants, and other animals live. This is
good.
Back
UV
So what’s the problem?
UV UV
Home
UV
UV
UV
Ozone layerThinner
prevents
UV radiation
fromless
striking
the Earth’s surface
ozone
layer blocks
UV radiation
Human activity of course. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s) are man-made chemicals used
in refrigerators, aerosols, and solvents. These CFC’s are released into the air and
drift up to the ozone layer.
Sadly, CFC molecules react with ozone molecules. As a result, the ozone molecules are
broken apart and thus can no longer absorb as much UV radiation. This allows
more UV radiation to reach the surface.
CFC
CFC
CFC
CFC
CFC
CFC
Back
Effects of UV radiation
Home
UV radiation breaks apart
DNA molecules
UV radiation is a known mutagen, which means it causes DNA mutations. Due to this
fact, UV radiation is harmful to all life on Earth, not just humans. The following is a
partial list of problems caused by excess UV radiation from the sun.
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Effects of UV radiation
Home
UV radiation is a known mutagen, which means it causes DNA mutations. Due to this
fact, UV radiation is harmful to all life on Earth, not just humans. The following is a
partial list of problems caused by excess UV radiation from the sun.
Skin cancer around the world has greatly increased.
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Effects of UV radiation
Home
UV radiation is a known mutagen, which means it causes DNA mutations. Due to this
fact, UV radiation is harmful to all life on Earth, not just humans. The following is a
partial list of problems caused by excess UV radiation from the sun.
Skin cancer around the world has greatly increased.
Crops do not grow as well. Keep in mind the world population is increasing.
Back
Effects of UV radiation
Home
UV radiation is a known mutagen, which means it causes DNA mutations. Due to this
fact, UV radiation is harmful to all life on Earth, not just humans. The following is a
partial list of problems caused by excess UV radiation from the sun.
Skin cancer around the world has greatly increased.
Crops do not grow as well. Keep in mind the world population is increasing.
Cataracts and other eye problems are rising.
Back
Effects of UV radiation
Home
UV radiation is a known mutagen, which means it causes DNA mutations. Due to this
fact, UV radiation is harmful to all life on Earth, not just humans. The following is a
partial list of problems caused by excess UV radiation from the sun.
Skin cancer around the world has greatly increased.
Crops do not grow as well. Keep in mind the world population is increasing.
Cataracts and other eye problems are rising.
Destruction of plankton, which is the basis of ocean food webs.
Back
How to lessen your exposure?
Home
Sunburn is the most obvious sign of too much sun. Too much sun triggers the growth
of cancerous cells. There are easy steps you can take to help reduce your exposure
to the sun.
Back
How to lessen your exposure?
Home
Sunburn is the most obvious sign of too much sun. Too much sun triggers the growth
of cancerous cells. There are easy steps you can take to help reduce your exposure
to the sun.
Proper clothing like hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses help to block UV radiation.
Back
How to lessen your exposure?
Home
Sunburn is the most obvious sign of too much sun. Too much sun triggers the growth
of cancerous cells. There are easy steps you can take to help reduce your exposure
to the sun.
Proper clothing like hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses help to block UV radiation.
Use a sunscreen of at least SPF-30 when you plan to spend some time outside.
Stop the CFC Madness
Back
Home
Antarctica
In the mid-1980’s, scientists were shocked to discover a hole in the ozone layer over
Antarctica. Luckily Antarctica is uninhabited by people, but around the rest of the
world the ozone layer was getting thinner also. So more UV radiation was striking
the surface of Earth. Nations around the world saw this as a problem, and took
action.
Back
Stop the CFC Madness
Home
In the mid-1980’s, scientists were shocked to discover a hole in the ozone layer over
Antarctica. Luckily Antarctica is uninhabited by people, but around the rest of the
world the ozone layer was getting thinner also. So more UV radiation was striking
the surface of Earth. Nations around the world saw this as a problem, and took
action.
Over 150 nations signed the Montreal Protocol and agreed to reduce the use of CFCs.
The Montreal protocol is considered one of the most successful treaties in history.
Back
Ozone Outlook
Home
Since CFC’s can stay harmful for about 100 years, the pollution we released in the
1970’s will be in the atmosphere for some time. But since the Montreal Protocol,
CFC usage has been greatly reduced. This has allowed the ozone layer to naturally
repair itself, but the final recovery of the ozone layer is expected to take several
lifetimes. But we are on the right track.
Back
Acid Rain
Home
What goes up….must come down. We’ve all heard this expression and it is very fitting
concerning this next topic, acid rain. Normally, rainfall is life sustaining as rain
provides much needed water. But what if the rain water is polluted?
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Acid Rain
Home
What goes up….must come down. We’ve all heard this expression and it is very fitting
concerning this next topic, acid rain. Normally, rainfall is life sustaining as rain
provides much needed water. But what if the rain water is polluted?
Examine the pH scale above. Notice that chemicals less than 7 are considered acids.
Naturally, rain water is slightly acidic (pH of 5.6) due to chemicals commonly found
in the air. These chemicals get washed down with the rain and cause rain to be
slightly acidic. This is natural. So what is acid rain?
What goes up?
Back
Home
NOx
SO2
Once again, humans and fossil fuels are the cause of this problem. When fossil fuels
are burned in cars and factories, they release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides
into the air. Keep in mind that millions of cars and thousands of factories are
releasing these pollutants every day.
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Must come down…
Home
sulfuric acid
Nitric acid
Now that the sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are in the air, they combine with water
in the air to form two acids…sulfuric acid and nitric acid. When it eventually rains,
these acids will fall down and run into rivers, lakes, and streams. So even though
rain is naturally acidic, these chemicals make rain super acidic (pH of 3-4).
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Damages from acid rain
Home
As rivers, lakes, and streams collect more acids, the water becomes more deadly. The
acidic water has been blamed for frog deformities and can be deadly to fish, frogs,
and other aquatic life.
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Damages from acid rain
Home
As rivers, lakes, and streams collect more acids, the water becomes more deadly. The
acidic water has been blamed for frog deformities and can be deadly to fish, frogs,
and other aquatic life.
The sulfur and nitrogen in acid rain is harmful to human lungs and can lead to asthma
or bronchitis.
Back
Damages from acid rain
Home
As rivers, lakes, and streams collect more acids, the water becomes more deadly. The
acidic water has been blamed for frog deformities and can be deadly to fish, frogs,
and other aquatic life.
The sulfur and nitrogen in acid rain is harmful to human lungs and can lead to asthma
or bronchitis.
The acids in the soil can be absorbed through the roots of plants and trees and harm
their growth.
Back
Damages from acid rain
Home
As rivers, lakes, and streams collect more acids, the water becomes more deadly. The
acidic water has been blamed for frog deformities and can be deadly to fish, frogs,
and other aquatic life.
The sulfur and nitrogen in acid rain is harmful to human lungs and can lead to asthma
or bronchitis.
The acids in the soil can be absorbed through the roots of plants and trees and harm
their growth.
Acids can peel paint or wear down stone statues.
Back
Acid Rain Solutions
Home
Since the burning of fossil fuels is the cause of acid rain, the obvious solution is to
reduce the use of fossil fuels. While this may be easier said than done, there are
alternative energies that are less polluting. Many government programs exist to
help consumers go solar at home. Encourage your parents to look into this great
alternative.
Back
Acid Rain Solutions
Home
Avoid staring
inside the fridge
for long
amounts of
time
Turn off the TV
when not in use
Wash full laundry loads
Open the
blinds
Since the burning during
of fossil
the fuels is the cause of acid rain, the obvious solution is to
reduce the useday
ofand
fossil fuels. While this may be easier said than done, there are
turn off
alternative energies
exist to
the lightsthat are less polluting. Many government programs
Change the furnace
help consumers go solar atDry
home.
Encourage
parents
to look
wet clothes
outside on your
a laundry
line
filterinto
once this
a yeargreat
alternative.
Saving electricity at home reduces the amount of fossil fuels that are burned. Please
help by turning off electronics when they aren’t being used. Here are a few more
ideas to try at home. Be sure to share them with your folks.
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Deforestation
Home
As stated earlier, human overpopulation is the cause for many problems. Another such
problem is called deforestation. Like the name implies, this is the clearing of
forested land. Once cleared, the cleared land is often used to build housing or is
converted into farmland to grow crops. As cities expand further and further into
once wilderness areas, the animals living in these areas will be displaced. The
plant-life is obviously destroyed as the land is cleared.
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Deforestation
Home
Paper rolls
Lumber for building
Many poor nations still burn wood
to cook and heat their homes
As stated earlier, human overpopulation is the cause for many problems. Another such
problem is called deforestation. Like the name implies, this is the clearing of
forested land. Once cleared, the cleared land is often used to build housing or is
converted into farmland to grow crops. As cities expand further and further into
once wilderness areas, the animals living in these areas will be displaced. The
plant-life is obviously destroyed as the land is cleared.
Around the world, there is a high demand for wood products. Wood is used as fuel,
building supplies, and paper. So in order to meet the demand around the world,
trees are cut down and sold as lumber.
Back
Why is deforestation harmful?
Home
Hopefully this is obvious. By destroying the habitats of wildlife this causes extinctions.
Lets not forget that the vast majority of drugs used to treat illness come from
chemicals found in plants and animals. So by causing the extinction of wildlife, we
are losing an important tool to help fight disease.
Back
Why is deforestation harmful?
Home
Hopefully this is obvious. By destroying the habitats of wildlife this causes extinctions.
Lets not forget that the vast majority of drugs used to treat illness come from
chemicals found in plants and animals. So by causing the extinction of wildlife, we
are losing an important tool to help fight disease.
As humans move into areas that were once wilderness, animal attacks are on the rise.
Back
Why is deforestation harmful?
Home
Hopefully this is obvious. By destroying the habitats of wildlife this causes extinctions.
Lets not forget that the vast majority of drugs used to treat illness come from
chemicals found in plants and animals. So by causing the extinction of wildlife, we
are losing an important tool to help fight disease.
As humans move into areas that were once wilderness, animal attacks are on the rise.
Food chains and food webs become out of balance. Examine the food web above.
What would probably happen to these organisms if the trees were destroyed and
cut down?
They would continue to
The rest may go extinct since
survive just fine
there are no producers left
correct
Back
How to help prevent Deforestation?
I’m sure you know some ways to help reduce the use of wood products.
Recycle…recycle…recycle!
Home
Back
How to help prevent Deforestation?
Home
I’m sure you know some ways to help reduce the use of wood products.
Recycle…recycle…recycle!
When possible, look into purchasing 2nd hand furniture. Often, older furniture is even
built to better standards and will last longer.
Back
How to help prevent Deforestation?
Home
I’m sure you know some ways to help reduce the use of wood products.
Recycle…recycle…recycle!
When possible, look into purchasing 2nd hand furniture. Often, older furniture is even
built to better standards and will last longer.
Try and go paperless at home. Sign up for e-bills. Remove your name from “junk mail”
distributors.
Back
How to help prevent Deforestation?
Home
I’m sure you know some ways to help reduce the use of wood products.
Recycle…recycle…recycle!
When possible, look into purchasing 2nd hand furniture. Often, older furniture is even
built to better standards and will last longer.
Try and go paperless at home. Sign up for e-bills. Remove your name from “junk mail”
distributors.
Speak out to your local and federal representatives. They can help to create new laws
to protect the environment.
Back
How to help prevent Deforestation?
Home
I’m sure you know some ways to help reduce the use of wood products.
Recycle…recycle…recycle!
When possible, look into purchasing 2nd hand furniture. Often, older furniture is even
built to better standards and will last longer.
Try and go paperless at home. Sign up for e-bills. Remove your name from “junk mail”
distributors.
Speak out to your local and federal representatives. They can help to create new laws
to protect the environment.
Support various environmental action groups such as GreenPeace or the Sierra Club.
Back
Conclusion
Home
So it is clear that many environmental problems exist today. It is also clear the human
activity is the leading cause. Humans are releasing the pollution that causes the
ozone problem, acid rain, and global warming. Human actions are behind
deforestation. So now is the time to act.
Back
Conclusion
Home
So it is clear that many environmental problems exist today. It is also clear the human
activity is the leading cause. Humans are releasing the pollution that causes the
ozone problem, acid rain, and global warming. Human actions are behind
deforestation. So now is the time to act.
It starts with local action and changes at home. Spread the word to your family
members about ways to help lessen the impact that humans have on the
environment. Education is the key to reversing this trend and it starts with you.
Back
Quick Quiz #1
Home
Correct
Which is not a fossil fuel?
Coal
Wood
Natural gas
Oil
Quick Quiz #2
Back
Which climate altering gas is released from the burning of fossil fuels?
Correct
Nitrogen oxide
CFC’s
Carbon dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Home
Back
Quick Quiz #3
Home
Which man-made molecule is responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer?
Nitrogen oxide
CFC’s
Carbon dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Correct
Back
Quick Quiz #4
Home
What is happening as a result of the thinning of the ozone layer?
Rivers and lakes
are more acidic
The Earth is
warming
Forests are
being cleared
More UV radiation
is striking Earth
Correct
Back
Quick Quiz #5
Home
What is considered to be the most serious environmental threat?
Global warming
Ozone layer
destruction
Acid rain
Overpopulation
Correct
Back
Quick Quiz #6
Home
The pollutants that lead to acid rain come from which?
Increase in Earth’s
temperature
Fossil fuel
burning
The use of aerosol
can sprays
Extra amounts
of UV radiation
Correct
Quick Quiz #7
Back
Which is an immediate threat to the habitat of living organisms?
Correct
Deforestation
Greenhouse
effect
Acid rain
Ozone
depletion
Home
Quick Quiz #8
Back
Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are related to which problem?
Correct
Ozone
destruction
Deforestation
Acid rain
Global
warming
Home
Back
Quick Quiz #9
Home
Recycling and saving resources is a way to help which?
Ozone
destruction
Greenhouse
effect
Acid Rain
All of these
Correct
Quick Quiz #10
Back
The Montreal Protocol helped to reduce the amount of which?
Correct
CFCs used In
industry
Acids released
into lakes
Wood cutting
Carbon dioxide
in the air
Home
Back
Home
Be sure to turn in your worksheet when finished.
Climate Change
Why is Earth much warmer than the moon?
Earth is much closer
to the sun
Error
The Earth and the moon are about the same distance to the sun. In fact, as the moon
revolves around the Earth sometimes it is even closer.
Try Again
Climate Change
Moon craters
Earth crater
Why is Earth much warmer than the moon?
Earth has been struck
by numerous meteors
Try again
It is true that Earth has been struck by a countless number of meteors, but so has the
moon. You can see the craters left behind in this picture of the moon. So if meteor
impacts made the Earth warm, then the moon should be warm also. But the moon
is not warm.
Try Again
Climate Change
If agriculture was disrupted, how would that affect the human population?
Error
The human population
would increase.
Think about this. People need food. If our ability to make food was disrupted, humans
would have more trouble feeding ourselves.
Try Again
Climate Change
If agriculture was disrupted, how would that affect the human population?
Error
The human population
would remain unchanged.
Think about this. People need food. If our ability to make food was disrupted, humans
would have more trouble feeding ourselves.
Try Again
Why is deforestation harmful?
Food chains and food webs become out of balance. Examine the food web above.
What would probably happen to these organisms if the trees were destroyed and
cut down?
Error
They would continue to
survive just fine
If the trees are gone, the herbivores would slowly starve. If the herbivores starve and
die, then the carnivores would have nothing to eat.
Try Again
Quick Quiz #1
Which is not a fossil fuel?
Error
Coal
Fossil fuels like coal, petroleum (oil), and
natural gas are organic compounds found
in the Earth’s crust. They are created
from the remains of plants and animals
that lived millions of years ago.
According to the US Energy Information
Administration (EIA), fossil fuels meet
around 82% of U.S. energy demand.
Try Again
Quick Quiz #1
Which is not a fossil fuel?
Error
Natural gas
Fossil fuels like coal, petroleum (oil),
and natural gas are organic
compounds found in the Earth’s crust.
They are created from the remains of
plants and animals that lived millions
of years ago. According to the US
Energy Information Administration
(EIA), fossil fuels meet around 82% of
U.S. energy demand.
Try Again
Quick Quiz #1
Which is not a fossil fuel?
Oil
Fossil fuels like coal, petroleum (oil),
and natural gas are organic
compounds found in the Earth’s crust.
They are created from the remains of
plants and animals that lived millions
of years ago. According to the US
Energy Information Administration
(EIA), fossil fuels meet around 82% of
U.S. energy demand.
Try Again
Error
Quick Quiz #2
Which climate altering gas is released from the burning of fossil fuels?
Error
Nitrogen oxide
Nitrogen oxides are in the air, and when
they combine with water they create
nitric acid. When it eventually rains, nitric
acids will fall down and run into rivers,
lakes, and streams. Nitrogen oxides create
acid rain.
Try Again
Quick Quiz #2
Which climate altering gas is released from the burning of fossil fuels?
CFC’s
UV
Thicker ozone layer
Error
UV
Thinner ozone layer
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s) are man-made chemicals used in refrigerators, aerosols,
and solvents. CFC’s are released into the air and drift up to the ozone layer. CFC
molecules react with ozone molecules and causes them to broke apart. This allows
more UV radiation to reach the surface.
Try Again
Quick Quiz #2
Which climate altering gas is released from the burning of fossil fuels?
Sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxides are in the air, and when
they combine with water they create
sulfuric acid. When it eventually rains,
sulfuric acids will fall down and run into
rivers, lakes, and streams. Sulfur dioxides
create acid rain.
Try Again
Error
Quick Quiz #3
Which man-made molecule is responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer?
Error
Nitrogen oxide
Nitrogen oxides are in the air, and when
they combine with water they create
nitric acid. When it eventually rains, nitric
acids will fall down and run into rivers,
lakes, and streams. Nitrogen oxides create
acid rain.
Try Again
Quick Quiz #3
Which man-made molecule is responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer?
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
Error Carbon dioxide
When cars, factories, and other manmade devices burn fossil fuels, they
release carbon dioxide (CO2). For
centuries, CO2 has been accumulating in
the atmosphere. This extra CO2 is
trapping excess amounts of heat. The
extra heat is causing climate change… not
destroying the ozone layer.
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Quick Quiz #3
Which man-made molecule is responsible for the destruction of the ozone layer?
Sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxides are in the air, and when
they combine with water they create
sulfuric acid. When it eventually rains,
sulfuric acids will fall down and run into
rivers, lakes, and streams. Sulfur dioxides
create acid rain.
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Error
Quick Quiz #4
What is happening as a result of the thinning of the ozone layer?
Error
Rivers and lakes
are more acidic
Rivers and lakes are becoming more acidic
due to acid rain, not the thinning ozone
layer. Burning fossil fuels puts a lot of
pollution into the air. Some of that
pollution is acidic and falls back to Earth in
the rain.
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Quick Quiz #4
What is happening as a result of the thinning of the ozone layer?
Error
Forests are
being cleared
Forests are being cleared because there is
a large need for wood products. More and
more forests are being cut down to make
farmland and for building materials.
Deforestation is not related to the
thinning ozone layer.
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Quick Quiz #4
What is happening as a result of the thinning of the ozone layer?
The Earth is
warming
Error
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
The Earth’s climate is changing due to the extra CO2 being trapped in the atmosphere.
The CO2 traps heat near the Earth’s surface where it cannot escape into outer space.
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Quick Quiz #5
What is considered to be the most serious environmental threat?
Error
Global warming
Global warming and climate
change is bad… very bad.
But think what is causing
climate change? The overall
actions of humans is causing
climate change and global
warming. So there is a
better answer.
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Quick Quiz #5
What is considered to be the most serious environmental threat?
Error
Acid rain is bad… very bad.
But think what is causing
acid rain? The overall
actions of humans is causing
acid rain. So there is a
better answer.
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Acid rain
Quick Quiz #5
What is considered to be the most serious environmental threat?
Ozone layer
destruction
Ozone destruction is bad…
very bad. But think what is
causing ozone destruction?
The overall actions of humans
is causing ozone destruction.
So there is a better answer.
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Error
Quick Quiz #6
The pollutants that lead to acid rain come from which?
Error
Increase in Earth’s
temperature
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
The temperature of the Earth is not a pollutant. The Earth’s temperature is increasing
due to the burning of fossils fuels. Fossils fuel burning produces electricity, but it also
releases a lot of CO2 into the air.
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Quick Quiz #6
The pollutants that lead to acid rain come from which?
UV
UV
Error
The use of aerosol
can sprays
Thicker ozone layer
Thinner ozone layer
Aerosol cans release CFC’s, which can thin and destroy the ozone layer. Aerosol cans
and CFCs do not cause acid rain.
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Quick Quiz #6
The pollutants that lead to acid rain come from which?
UV
UV
Extra amounts
Error
of UV radiation
Thicker ozone layer
Thinner ozone layer
Extra UV radiation will reach the Earth’s surface when the ozone layer becomes
thinner as you can see in the city on the right. The thinning ozone layer is caused by
CFC molecules, not acid rain.
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Quick Quiz #7
Which is an immediate threat to the habitat of living organisms?
Error
Acid rain
This is not a bad answer because acid rain is a threat to habitats. But acid rain takes
time. One of the choices destroys habitats immediately.
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Quick Quiz #7
Which is an immediate threat to the habitat of living organisms?
Greenhouse
effect
Error
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
The greenhouse effect naturally keeps Earth warm. That is good. The greenhouse
effect is only a problem when humans put too much CO2 into the atmosphere by
burning fossil fuels. This process takes time and does not destroy habitats
immediately.
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Quick Quiz #7
Which is an immediate threat to the habitat of living organisms?
UV
UV
Ozone
depletion
Thicker ozone layer
Error
Thinner ozone layer
Extra UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface when the ozone layer becomes thinner
can destroy habitats but it takes time. It is not an immediate process.
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Quick Quiz #8
Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are related to which problem?
Error
UV
Ozone
destruction
Thicker ozone layer
UV
Thinner ozone layer
The ozone layer is destroyed by man-made chemicals called CFC, which are used in
aerosol cans, refrigerators, and solvents. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are not
destroying the ozone layer.
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Quick Quiz #8
Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are related to which problem?
Deforestation
Error
Forests are being cleared because there is a large need for wood products. More and
more forests are being cut down to make farmland and for building materials. Sulfur
dioxide and nitrogen oxide are not causing deforestation.
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Quick Quiz #8
Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are related to which problem?
Global
warming
Error
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2 CO2
CO2
CO2
CO2
The Earth’s climate is changing due to the extra CO2 being trapped in the atmosphere
from the burning of fossil fuels. The CO2 traps heat near the Earth’s surface where it
cannot escape into outer space. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides do not cause this.
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Quick Quiz #9
Recycling and saving resources is a way to help which?
Error
Ozone
destruction
It is true that recycling and
saving resources can prevent
ozone layer destruction, but
there is a better choice.
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Go Green!
Fluorescent light bulbs help
to save energy.
Quick Quiz #9
Recycling and saving resources is a way to help which?
Error
Acid Rain
It is true that recycling and saving resources
can prevent acid rain, but there is a better
choice.
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Go Green!
Fluorescent light bulbs help
to save energy.
Quick Quiz #9
Recycling and saving resources is a way to help which?
Greenhouse
effect
Error
It is true that recycling and saving
resources can prevent the
greenhouse effect, but there is a
better choice.
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Go Green!
Fluorescent light bulbs help
to save energy.
Quick Quiz #10
The Montreal Protocol helped to reduce the amount of which?
UV
Error
Wood cutting
Thinner ozone layer
Hint: The Montreal Protocol has helped the ozone layer rebuild itself and become
thicker. Therefore, the Montreal Protocol must ban the use of the chemicals that
destroy the ozone layer. What are those chemicals called?
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Quick Quiz #10
The Montreal Protocol helped to reduce the amount of which?
Acids released Error
into lakes
UV
Thinner ozone layer
Hint: The Montreal Protocol has helped the ozone layer rebuild itself and become
thicker. Therefore, the Montreal Protocol must ban the use of the chemicals that
destroy the ozone layer. What are those chemicals called?
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Quick Quiz #10
The Montreal Protocol helped to reduce the amount of which?
UV
Carbon dioxide
in the air
Error
Thinner ozone layer
Hint: The Montreal Protocol has helped the ozone layer rebuild itself and become
thicker. Therefore, the Montreal Protocol must ban the use of the chemicals that
destroy the ozone layer. What are those chemicals called?
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