What Have Sunflowers Got To Do With Nuclear Disasters?

Sunflowers have been used as symbols of nuclear disarmament and as tools for environmental cleanup through phytoremediation. After the Chernobyl disaster, sunflowers were planted to absorb radioactive isotopes from contaminated sites. These plants, known as hyperaccumulators, can absorb large amounts of toxic elements. However, challenges exist, such as the risk of spreading contamination through the food chain and the need for effective disposal methods. While successful in Chernobyl, similar efforts in Fukushima faced challenges due to soil conditions and plant selection.

What event in 1996 led to the planting of sunflowers in Ukraine?

• The signing of a peace treaty

• The Fukushima nuclear disaster

• Ukraine becoming a non-nuclear weapon state

• The Chernobyl disaster

What principle is the use of sunflowers for environmental cleanup based on?

• Phytoremediation

• Bioluminescence

• Genetic modification

• Photosynthesis

Why are sunflowers considered hyperaccumulators?

• They have a large biomass and can absorb large amounts of toxic elements

• They produce a lot of seeds

• They can grow in any climate

• They are resistant to all diseases

How do sunflowers manage to absorb radioactive isotopes like cesium and strontium?

• By using their flowers to trap isotopes

• By growing in radioactive soil

• By mimicking essential nutrients like potassium and calcium

• By releasing chemicals that neutralize isotopes

What is the process called where the organic carbon in sunflowers is burnt to leave behind radioactive waste?

• Vitrification

• Paralysis

• Combustion

• Incineration

Why was the use of sunflowers in Fukushima not as successful as in Chernobyl?

• The sunflowers were planted too late

• The sunflower variety used had no phyto extraction capabilities

• The sunflowers were eaten by animals

• The soil was too dry

Which of the following plants is also used for phytoremediation?

• Field mustard

• Rose

• Oak tree

• Sunflower