7.E.1.6

Nonrenewable energy sources, such as oil and natural gas, are formed from the remains of organisms buried beneath the surface of Earth. What is one advantage of using natural gas instead of solar power to generate electricity?

• Natural gas is free to extract and use.
• Natural gas is safer than solar energy.
• Natural gas plants can convert gas to electricity.
• Natural gas plants can make power at night.

Many countries depend on the energy from fossil fuels. Some scientists suggest using renewable sources of energy instead. Why would scientists most likely suggest using renewable sources of energy?

• They are safer for the environment.
• They are cheaper to develop.
• They are easier to transport.
• They produce more energy.

Toxic chemicals in mobile phone batteries can pollute the environment when the phones are thrown away in unlined landfills. Which of the following best explains why people continue to use mobile phones even though the phones can have a negative impact on the environment?

• Mobile phones are less expensive than phones with cords.
• Mobile phones cause people to become distracted.
• Mobile phones cause less environmental damage than other electronic products.
• Mobile phones make communication more convenient.

Measurements of carbon dioxide concentrations in the air taken over the past decade have shown a

• leveling off.
• slow increase.
• steady decline.
• dramatic increase.

Automobile engines built today are designed to be gas efficient. Gas-efficient engines most likely affect a city by reducing

• air pollution.
• heat pollution.
• noise pollution.
• light pollution.

Over which of the following components of smog do humans have the least control?

• water vapor
• sulfur dioxide
• ammonia
• nitrogen oxides

In the 1970s scientists began investigating the chemical reactions that caused the destruction of ozone in the upper atmosphere. Which statement best describes a direct result of their research on society and on the environment?

• Research in space travel was moved to the forefront.
• The fields of “frontier” and “junk” science were established.
• Alternatives to ozone-depleting aerosols were invented.
• Grocery stores began using plastic bags instead of paper.

Scientists monitor ozone in the upper atmosphere and at ground level. Changing concentrations of each can cause health problems for people. Which set of changes would cause the most health concerns?

• an increase in both atmospheric and ground level ozone
• a decrease in both atmospheric and ground level ozone
• an increase in atmospheric ozone, and a decrease in ground level ozone
• a decrease in atmospheric ozone, and an increase in ground level ozone