Earth Science First Quarter - Module 14: Human Health and Environment (VOCABULARY Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to waste, environmental health, and related pollutants from the module.

Eutrophication

Excessive nutrients in water that lead to algal blooms, reduced sunlight, and oxygen depletion harming aquatic life.

Leachate

A liquid produced when water moves through wastes, dissolving hazardous substances and potentially contaminating soil or groundwater.

Siltation

The buildup of silt and clay in water bodies, increasing turbidity and negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems.

Acid mine drainage

Acidic water formed when sulfide minerals are exposed by mining, releasing metals and lowering pH.

Overburden

The layer of rock and soil removed to access ore in mining; its displacement can cause erosion and sediment pollution.

Heavy metals

Toxic metallic elements (e.g., mercury, lead, cadmium) released by industry that can accumulate in organisms and harm health.

Mercury

A toxic heavy metal that can damage the nervous system and bioaccumulate in the food chain.

Bioaccumulation

The gradual buildup of toxins in an organism from the environment or diet over time.

Chlorinated pesticide

Pesticides containing chlorine that can persist in the environment and bioaccumulate, potentially causing poisoning.

Ethylene dichloride

An industrially used chlorinated hydrocarbon that can pollute water and cause degenerative lesions in organs.

Pneumoconiosis

Lung disease caused by inhaling mineral dusts, common in mining and dusty industries.

Biomedical waste

Waste from medical facilities (syringes, bandages) that can carry infectious agents and requires special handling.

Industrial waste

Wastes released by industrial plants; can be solid, liquid, or gaseous and may include metals and chemicals.

Agricultural waste

Wastes from farming (fertilizers, pesticides, animal waste) that can pollute soil and water.

Mining waste

Waste from mining activities (e.g., tailings, overburden) that can cause siltation and heavy-metal release.

Solid waste

Waste in solid form produced by households and industries (paper, plastics, metals, organics).

Recycling

Process of converting waste materials into reusable materials or products to reduce waste.

Composting

Biological decomposition of organic waste into a nutrient-rich fertilizer for crops.

Carbon monoxide

A toxic, colorless gas from incomplete combustion that reduces blood oxygen-carrying capacity.

Sulphur dioxide

A toxic air pollutant that irritates the lungs; high concentrations can lead to bronchitis and heart problems.