Environmental Science (Ch#1-3)

Front

What decade saw the enactment of most major laws in modern U.S. environmental policy?

Back

1960s and 1970s.

Front

What is the thin layer of rock that forms Earth's outer skin called?

Back

Crust

Front

How are carbon and nitrogen returned back into the soil?

Back

Through the decomposition of plants and animals.

Front

What term describes a situation where the free market does not distribute resources efficiently?

Back

Market failure.

Front

What is a formal set of general plans and principles intended to address problems and guide decision making?

Back

Policy.

Front

What is the process by which plants and animals break down organic matter called?

Back

Decomposition.

Front

What layer of the Earth lies beneath the crust?

Back

Mantle.

Front

What is the core of the Earth primarily made of?

Back

Iron and nickel.

Front

What is the term for the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat?

Back

Biodiversity.

Front

What is the main greenhouse gas emitted by human activities?

Back

Carbon dioxide (CO2).