#1
Which of the following gases is a major component of smog?
Nitrogen dioxide
ExplanationNitrogen dioxide is a key component of smog, formed by combustion processes in vehicles and industrial activities.
#2
What is the primary source of indoor air pollution in many households?
Cigarette smoke
ExplanationCigarette smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals that pollute indoor air, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
#3
What is the term for the process of converting waste materials into reusable materials?
Recycling
ExplanationRecycling involves the conversion of waste materials into reusable products to reduce resource consumption and waste generation.
#4
What is the primary source of plastic pollution in oceans?
Single-use plastics
ExplanationSingle-use plastics, like bottles and bags, make up a significant portion of plastic pollution in oceans due to their widespread use and improper disposal.
#5
Which pollutant is primarily responsible for acid rain?
Sulfur dioxide
ExplanationSulfur dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels react with atmospheric water vapor to form sulfuric acid, causing acid rain.
#6
What is the main source of mercury pollution in water bodies?
Coal-fired power plants
ExplanationCoal-fired power plants release mercury, which settles into water bodies through precipitation.
#7
Which of the following pollutants is associated with the depletion of the ozone layer?
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
ExplanationChlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were commonly used in refrigerants and aerosol propellants, causing ozone depletion in the stratosphere.
#8
Which of the following is NOT a primary air pollutant?
Nitrogen
ExplanationNitrogen is not considered a primary air pollutant, though nitrogen oxides can contribute to air pollution.
#9
Which of the following is a major greenhouse gas with a global warming potential many times greater than carbon dioxide?
Methane
ExplanationMethane has a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide, contributing significantly to climate change.
#10
What is eutrophication primarily caused by?
Excessive nutrient runoff
ExplanationEutrophication occurs when water bodies receive excess nutrients, usually from agricultural runoff or sewage, leading to excessive plant growth and oxygen depletion.
#11
What is the primary cause of the 'dead zones' in oceans?
Nutrient pollution
ExplanationNutrient pollution, usually from agricultural runoff, leads to excessive algal growth, depleting oxygen and creating dead zones in oceans.
#12
What is the primary cause of thermal pollution in water bodies?
Industrial discharge of heated water
ExplanationIndustries often discharge heated water into water bodies, leading to thermal pollution, which can disrupt aquatic ecosystems and decrease oxygen levels.