Clean Air Act Quiz

What is one of the primary goals of the Clean Air Act?

• To regulate greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide directly to combat global warming.

• To set national air quality standards for pollutants like carbon monoxide and ozone to protect public health.

• To eliminate all sources of air pollution from industrial and natural origins.

Answer explanation

One of the primary goals of the Clean Air Act is to set national air quality standards for pollutants like carbon monoxide and ozone, ensuring protection of public health from harmful air pollution.

Which of the following is NOT one of the six criteria air pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act?

• Carbon Monoxide

• Ground-Level Ozone

• Carbon Dioxide

Answer explanation

Carbon Dioxide is not one of the six criteria air pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act. The regulated pollutants include Carbon Monoxide and Ground-Level Ozone, among others.

What is a primary health impact of exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide?

• Lung cancer and chronic bronchitis

• Headaches, fatigue, and potential suffocation

• Developmental issues and nerve damage

Answer explanation

High levels of carbon monoxide can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even suffocation due to its ability to prevent oxygen from binding to hemoglobin in the blood, making this the primary health impact.

Which of the following correctly matches a pollutant with its primary environmental and human health impact?

• Lead – Decreases biodiversity; Causes neurotoxic effects in humans.

• Nitrogen Oxides – Enhances soil nutrients; Improves respiratory health.

• Particulate Matter – Neutralizes acid rain; Improves visibility.

Answer explanation

Lead is known to decrease biodiversity by harming various species and ecosystems. Additionally, it causes neurotoxic effects in humans, impacting brain function and development, making this choice correct.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is the primary driver of photochemical smog formation?

• The reaction between sulfur dioxide and water vapor

• Sunlight interacting with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

• The accumulation of particulate matter during overcast conditions

Answer explanation

Photochemical smog primarily forms when sunlight interacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), leading to the production of ozone and other harmful pollutants.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-5

Which of the following is a primary component of photochemical smog?

• Sulfuric acid

• Ground-level ozone

• Lead

Answer explanation

Ground-level ozone is a key component of photochemical smog, formed by the reaction of sunlight with pollutants like volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. Sulfuric acid and lead are not primary components of smog.

Which of the following is a health impact caused by photochemical smog?

• A. Headaches and fatigue

• B. Respiratory irritation and chest pain

• C. Developmental issues and neurotoxic effects

Answer explanation

Photochemical smog primarily causes respiratory issues due to its harmful pollutants. Therefore, option B, which includes respiratory irritation and chest pain, accurately reflects the health impacts associated with photochemical smog.

How does photochemical smog affect the environment?

• A. Causes acid rain that damages soil and aquatic ecosystems

• B. Reduces visibility and damages plant tissues

• C. Contaminates water supplies with heavy metals

Answer explanation

Photochemical smog primarily reduces visibility and can damage plant tissues due to the presence of ozone and other pollutants, making option B the correct choice. Options A and C refer to different environmental issues.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

What is a common indoor air pollutant found in homes that can cause respiratory issues and is often released from damp, poorly ventilated areas?

• A. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

• B. Black Mold

• C. Radon

Answer explanation

Black Mold is a common indoor air pollutant that thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas. It can release spores that cause respiratory issues, making it a significant health concern in homes.

What is the purpose of smearing petroleum jelly inside a plastic cup or jar during the passive sampling procedure?

• A. To improve visibility of the particulates under a microscope

• B. To capture airborne particulates from the surrounding environment

• C. To prevent particulates from settling at the bottom of the jar

Answer explanation

Smearing petroleum jelly inside the cup or jar helps to capture airborne particulates from the environment, making option B the correct choice. It acts as an adhesive to trap particles for analysis.