1.
How does ozone form?
Correct Answer
A. When oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons combine in the presence of heat and sunlight.
Explanation
Ozone forms when oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons combine in the presence of heat and sunlight. This is because the energy from heat and sunlight causes the molecules of nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons to react and form ozone. The reaction involves the breaking and rearranging of chemical bonds, resulting in the formation of ozone molecules. This process is known as photochemical reaction, where the energy from sunlight triggers the chemical reaction.
2.
Restarting your engine burns enough fuel to run your car for ______, and the average vehicle burns approximately ________ of fuel per hour.
Correct Answer
C. 10 seconds/1 gallon
Explanation
Restarting your engine burns enough fuel to run your car for 10 seconds, and the average vehicle burns approximately 1 gallon of fuel per hour.
3.
Which of the following childhood health problems has been linked to exposure to pollution from major roadways?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Exposure to pollution from major roadways has been linked to asthma, pediatric cancers, and permanently diminished lung capacity in childhood. This means that all of the above health problems can be caused or exacerbated by pollution from major roadways.
4.
In the Philadelphia region, approximately how many people annually die prematurely from diesel soot pollution alone?
Correct Answer
C. 260
Explanation
Approximately 260 people annually die prematurely from diesel soot pollution alone in the Philadelphia region. This suggests that the impact of diesel soot pollution on public health is significant and highlights the need for measures to reduce this type of pollution.
5.
Philadelphia is currently listed by the EPA as being in nonattainment with Clean Air Act standards for:
Correct Answer
B. Ozone and Fine Particles (also known as PM2.5)
Explanation
Philadelphia is currently listed by the EPA as being in nonattainment with Clean Air Act standards for ozone and fine particles (PM2.5). This means that the city's air quality does not meet the required standards for these pollutants. Ozone is a gas that can be harmful to human health, especially when present in high concentrations near the ground. Fine particles, also known as PM2.5, are tiny particles suspended in the air that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems. The EPA has identified Philadelphia as having elevated levels of these pollutants, indicating a need for improved air quality measures in the city.
6.
According to EPA's most recent Emissions Inventory, which of the following types of sources emits the most total pollution in Philadelphia:
Correct Answer
D. On-highway mobile sources like cars and trucks.
Explanation
On-highway mobile sources like cars and trucks emit the most total pollution in Philadelphia, according to EPA's most recent Emissions Inventory. This is because there are a significant number of vehicles on the roads, and they release pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. These emissions contribute to air pollution and can have negative impacts on the environment and public health. Non-road sources, point sources, and area sources also contribute to pollution, but on-highway mobile sources have the highest emissions in Philadelphia.
7.
Because of climate change, Philadelphia is expected to become _______ and _______ by the end of this century.
Correct Answer
D. Warmer and wetter
Explanation
Due to climate change, Philadelphia is projected to experience an increase in temperature and precipitation, resulting in a warmer and wetter climate by the end of this century. This can be attributed to the rising global temperatures and changes in weather patterns, leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves and rainfall events in the region.
8.
Approximately what percentage of children under 18 in Philadelphia have asthma?
Correct Answer
C. 25%
Explanation
Approximately 25% of children under 18 in Philadelphia have asthma. This suggests that a significant portion of the child population in Philadelphia is affected by this respiratory condition. Asthma is a chronic disease that can have a significant impact on a child's quality of life and requires ongoing management and treatment. The prevalence of asthma among children in Philadelphia highlights the importance of public health initiatives and resources dedicated to addressing and managing this condition in the community.
9.
It's estimated that reductions in particle pollution courtesy of the Clean Air Act have added approximately _____ to the average American lifespan.
Correct Answer
D. 5 months
Explanation
Reductions in particle pollution courtesy of the Clean Air Act have significantly improved air quality, which in turn has had a positive impact on public health. By reducing the exposure to harmful particles, such as those found in vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants, the Clean Air Act has helped to decrease the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. These improvements in air quality are estimated to have added approximately 5 months to the average American lifespan.
10.
On days with orange-level air pollution:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above" because all of the mentioned actions are recommended on days with orange-level air pollution. Advising children, seniors, and those with heart or lung conditions to avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours helps protect their health. Avoiding driving and refueling the car until after 5pm reduces the emission of pollutants. Finally, reducing energy use at home and in the workplace helps decrease the overall pollution levels. Therefore, all of these actions are necessary to minimize exposure to air pollution and contribute to a healthier environment.