HTH Chapter 16

environmental health

What is the current global fertility average?

2.5 births per woman

What are some natural air pollutants?

Volcanic ash, particulate matter, and dust.

What is the primary greenhouse gas responsible for global warming?

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

What is the Air Quality Index value range for “unhealthly” air quality

151 to 200

What is ionizing radiation?

Radiation that has enough energy to ionize atoms.

It includes types of radiation such as alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays, and can lead to changes in atomic structure and chemical reactions.

What is the primary cause of ozone layer depletion?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

What are some strategies to reduce solid waste?

Recycling, composting, source reduction, and combustion with energy recovery

How much of the world’s water is freshwater?

3%

What are point source pollutants?

Pollutants that enter waterways at specific locations like pipes, ditches, or culverts

Although CFCs have been banned, its replacements have what disadvantages for the environment?

Many alternatives still contribute to the greenhouse effect

What is a key goal of sustainable development?

To meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

What pollutants are associated with the formation of smog?

Nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons

What type of radiation has relatively long wavelength and enough energy to cause atoms to vibrate, but not ionize?

Non-ionizing radiation.

What type of radiation has relatively short wavelength and enough energy to ionize atoms?

Ionizing radiation.

What is the maximum safe radiation exposure per year, measured in rads?

0.05-5 rads per year

What is the primary role of the ozone layer?

To protect the planet from ultraviolet (UVB) radiation.

What region has the highest population growth rate currently?

Sub-saharan Africa

Methane has a global warming potential at least ____ times that of carbon dioxide.

28

What gas has a global warming potential 265 times that of CO2?

Nitrous oxide.

What six pollutants are regulated by the clean air act?

Carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide.

What is the goal of the “Zero Population Growth” concept?

Ensuring that each couple has two children to replace themselves

What was the main purpose of the clean air act?

Regulate air pollutants that affect human health

What is the estimated percentage of solid waste that is recyclable?

90%

What type of radiation is emitted from nuclear power plants?

Ionizing radiation

What are major causes of water pollution?

Coliform bacteria, volatile organic compounds, PCBS, dioxins, agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, wastewater, and fracking/oil spills.