1.
On average, how much water do we use to take a shower?
Correct Answer
A. 15 -30 gallons
Explanation
The average amount of water used to take a shower is between 15 and 30 gallons. This range is considered typical for a standard shower, taking into account factors such as shower duration, water flow rate, and personal habits. It is important to be mindful of water usage and consider ways to conserve water while showering, such as using low-flow showerheads or taking shorter showers.
2.
On average, how much water do we use to brush teeth?
Correct Answer
A. 1 gallon
Explanation
On average, we use 1 gallon of water to brush our teeth. This is because when we brush our teeth, we typically keep the faucet running, which leads to a continuous flow of water. This can result in using a significant amount of water if left running for an extended period of time. However, if we turn off the faucet while brushing and only use water to rinse our mouth and toothbrush, we can significantly reduce the amount of water used to just 1 gallon.
3.
On average, how much water do we use to produce one ton of steel?
Correct Answer
A. 62,600 gallons
Explanation
The correct answer is 62,600 gallons. This means that, on average, it takes 62,600 gallons of water to produce one ton of steel.
4.
On average, how much water do we use to manufacture a car and its four tires?
Correct Answer
A. 39,900 gallons
5.
What percentage of the fresh water on Earth is trapped in glaciers?
Correct Answer
A. 68.7%
Explanation
Approximately 68.7% of the fresh water on Earth is trapped in glaciers. Glaciers are large bodies of ice that form from the accumulation and compaction of snow over many years. They are found in polar regions and high mountainous areas. Due to their size and the slow melting process, glaciers store a significant amount of fresh water. This makes them an important source of freshwater for many rivers and lakes, as well as a crucial component of the Earth's water cycle.
6.
At 50 gallons per day, residential Europeans use about half of the water that residential Americans use.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Residential Europeans use about half of the water that residential Americans use because they consume 50 gallons per day, which is less than what residential Americans use.
7.
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day because when a toilet is running, it means that water is continuously flowing into the toilet bowl and then draining out. This constant flow of water can add up quickly and result in a significant amount of water being wasted over time. In the case of a running toilet, the water wastage can reach up to 200 gallons per day, which is a substantial amount and can have a negative impact on water conservation efforts.
8.
It takes more water to fill an above ground swimming pool than to manufacture a new car.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This statement is false. It takes significantly more water to manufacture a new car than to fill an above ground swimming pool. The manufacturing process of a car involves various stages that require large amounts of water, such as the production of steel, painting, and assembly. On the other hand, filling an above ground swimming pool typically requires a few thousand gallons of water, which is considerably less than the amount used in car manufacturing.
9.
Roughly 634 gallons of water go into the production of one hamburger.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
This statement is true because the production of a hamburger involves various stages such as growing crops for animal feed, raising livestock, processing meat, and packaging. Each of these stages requires a significant amount of water, including irrigation for crops, drinking water for animals, and water used in processing and cleaning. Therefore, it is estimated that approximately 634 gallons of water are used in the overall production of one hamburger.
10.
What does the symbol of the EPA look like?
Correct Answer
A. A sun and water wave inside the head of a flower
Explanation
The symbol of the EPA is a representation of the sun and water wave inside the head of a flower. This symbol signifies the agency's focus on protecting and preserving the environment, as the sun represents energy and the water wave represents the importance of water resources. The flower symbolizes nature and the need to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Overall, the symbol conveys the EPA's mission to safeguard the environment and promote sustainability.
11.
The establishment of the EPA was done in conjunction with what other US governmental organization?
Correct Answer
A. National Oceanic and AtmospHeric Administration
Explanation
The correct answer is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, was established in 1970 by President Richard Nixon in response to growing concerns about environmental pollution. The EPA works to protect human health and the environment by enforcing regulations and conducting research on various environmental issues. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is another US governmental organization that focuses on the study and conservation of the Earth's oceans and atmosphere. The establishment of the EPA and NOAA together demonstrates the US government's commitment to environmental protection and conservation.
12.
There used to be an Office of Noise Pollution.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement suggests that there was an Office of Noise Pollution in the past. This implies that at some point, there was a government organization or department dedicated to addressing and managing noise pollution.
13.
Which EPA program makes previous polluters of a site pay for the site's clean-up?
Correct Answer
A. SuperFund
Explanation
The SuperFund program is an EPA program that holds previous polluters responsible for the clean-up of contaminated sites. It was established in 1980 to address sites that pose a risk to human health and the environment due to hazardous waste. The program requires those responsible for the pollution to either clean up the site themselves or reimburse the government for the cost of the clean-up. This ensures that the financial burden of remediation falls on the parties responsible for the pollution, rather than taxpayers.
14.
In regards to the EPA, Bush declared 2003 the year of...
Correct Answer
A. Water
Explanation
Bush declared 2003 the year of water in regards to the EPA. This suggests that during that year, the focus and emphasis of the EPA's efforts were on water-related issues. It implies that the government aimed to address and improve water quality, conservation, and management. This declaration may have led to increased awareness, funding, and initiatives to protect and preserve water resources during that specific year.
15.
How many Regional Offices does the EPA have?
Correct Answer
A. 10
Explanation
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has 10 regional offices. These regional offices are responsible for implementing and enforcing environmental laws and regulations at the local level. Each region covers a specific geographic area and works closely with states, tribes, and local communities to address environmental issues and protect human health and the environment. Having multiple regional offices allows the EPA to have a presence and address environmental concerns across the country.
16.
Are you allowed to visit inside the EPA headquarters in Washington, DC?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
Yes, you are allowed to visit inside the EPA headquarters in Washington, DC. This suggests that the EPA headquarters is open to the public for visits and tours.
17.
Who was EPA’s first Administrator?
Correct Answer
A. William D. Ruckelshaus
Explanation
William D. Ruckelshaus was the first Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). He served as the EPA Administrator from 1970 to 1973. Ruckelshaus played a crucial role in establishing the EPA and implementing key environmental policies during its early years. He was known for his dedication to environmental protection and his efforts to enforce regulations to improve air and water quality. Ruckelshaus's appointment as the first EPA Administrator highlights his significant contributions to the field of environmental protection.
18.
Approximately how many employees does the EPA have?
Correct Answer
A. 17,000
Explanation
The correct answer is 17,000. This suggests that the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has approximately 17,000 employees.
19.
When was the Clean Air Act law first created?
Correct Answer
A. 1963
Explanation
The Clean Air Act law was first created in 1963.
20.
In relation to EPA’s regulations, PSD stands for:
Correct Answer
A. Prevention of Significant Deterioration
Explanation
PSD stands for Prevention of Significant Deterioration. This term is related to the regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA's PSD program aims to prevent or minimize the deterioration of air quality in areas that already have clean air. It requires permits for new major stationary sources of air pollution, such as power plants or factories, and sets emission limits for these sources to ensure they do not cause significant deterioration of air quality. The program helps protect and maintain the quality of air in areas that already have good air quality.
21.
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are set standards for wide-spread pollutants from numerous and diverse sources considered harmful to public health and the environment.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are indeed set standards for pollutants that are considered harmful to public health and the environment. These standards are established by regulatory agencies to ensure that the air quality meets certain criteria and to protect the well-being of the population and the ecosystem. Therefore, it is true that NAAQS are standards for widespread pollutants from various sources.
22.
When did the EPA issue Mandatory Reporting for Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)?
Correct Answer
A. 2009
Explanation
The EPA issued Mandatory Reporting for Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) in 2009. This means that in 2009, the EPA implemented regulations that required certain facilities to report their greenhouse gas emissions. This was a significant step in addressing and monitoring the impact of greenhouse gases on the environment.
23.
Which one is NOT an EPA office:
Correct Answer
A. Office of Endangered Species
Explanation
The Office of Endangered Species is not an EPA office because it is actually a part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which is a separate agency under the Department of the Interior. The EPA focuses on protecting human health and the environment, while the Office of Endangered Species is responsible for conserving and protecting endangered and threatened species and their habitats.
24.
How old was William D. Ruckelshaus when he was first appointed as EPA's administrator?
Correct Answer
A. 38
Explanation
William D. Ruckelshaus was 38 years old when he was first appointed as EPA's administrator.
25.
In the first year of operation, how many industrial pollution cases did the EPA refer to the Department of Justice for prosecution?
Correct Answer
A. 152
Explanation
The correct answer is 152. This means that in the first year of operation, the EPA referred 152 industrial pollution cases to the Department of Justice for prosecution.
26.
Under the current EPA’s audit policy, how many days does an entity have to voluntarily disclose a violation once it has or may have occurred?
Correct Answer
A. 21
Explanation
Under the current EPA's audit policy, an entity has 21 days to voluntarily disclose a violation once it has or may have occurred.
27.
In 1973, auto manufacturers agreed to adopt a plan that would help cut emissions by 85% by installing catalytic converters in cars.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In 1973, auto manufacturers agreed to adopt a plan to reduce emissions by 85% by installing catalytic converters in cars. This statement is true because catalytic converters are a technology designed to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles. By installing these converters, auto manufacturers aimed to significantly decrease the amount of pollutants released into the environment, thus helping to improve air quality and reduce the impact of cars on climate change.
28.
What was the name of Rachel Carson’s book that influenced public opinion about the dangers of DDT?
Correct Answer
A. Silent Spring
Explanation
Rachel Carson's book, "Silent Spring," influenced public opinion about the dangers of DDT. This book, published in 1962, exposed the harmful effects of the pesticide on the environment and human health. Carson's work sparked a national conversation about the use of chemicals in agriculture and ultimately led to the banning of DDT in the United States. "Silent Spring" is considered a landmark book in the environmental movement and played a significant role in raising awareness about the need for environmental protection.
29.
In January 1971, a tribunal of the U.S. Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia ordered Ruckelshaus to begin the process of suspending DDT's registration, and to consider suspending its registration immediately. At the end of a sixty-day review process, the administrator reported that he had found no good reason to suspend DDT registration immediately. It and several other pesticides did not appear to constitute imminent health threats.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that in January 1971, the U.S. Court of Appeals ordered Ruckelshaus to begin the process of suspending DDT's registration. However, after a sixty-day review process, the administrator reported that there was no good reason to suspend DDT registration immediately. This suggests that the statement "In January 1971, a tribunal of the U.S. Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia ordered Ruckelshaus to begin the process of suspending DDT's registration, and to consider suspending its registration immediately" is true.
30.
What year did the EPA propose noise rules for supersonic transports (SSTs) applying FAA's standards for subsonic jets to future SSTs?
Correct Answer
A. 1975
Explanation
In 1975, the EPA proposed noise rules for supersonic transports (SSTs) by applying the FAA's standards for subsonic jets to future SSTs. This means that the EPA suggested using the same noise regulations that were already in place for subsonic jets for the new supersonic transports.
31.
In 1979 the EPA published final rules to control noise which included restrictions on the following:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The EPA published final rules in 1979 to control noise, and these rules included restrictions on air compressors, trucks/cars, and railroad engines. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" because all of these items were subject to restrictions according to the EPA rules.
32.
Which of these is NOT one of the Six Common Air Pollutants?
Correct Answer
C. Dihydrogen Monoxide
Explanation
Dihydrogen Monoxide is not one of the Six Common Air Pollutants. The Six Common Air Pollutants, also known as criteria pollutants, are Carbon Monoxide, Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide, Ozone, Particulate Matter, and Sulfur Dioxide. Dihydrogen Monoxide is not a recognized air pollutant and refers to water (H2O), which is not typically considered a pollutant in the context of air pollution.
33.
The Earth’s temperature has risen by how much over the past century?
Correct Answer
A. 1.4°F
Explanation
The Earth's temperature has risen by 1.4°F over the past century.
34.
How long can Carbon Dioxide stay in the atmosphere?
Correct Answer
C. Almost a century
Explanation
Carbon dioxide can stay in the atmosphere for almost a century. This is due to its long atmospheric lifetime, which is influenced by various factors such as chemical reactions and physical processes. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas, meaning it traps heat in the atmosphere and contributes to global warming. Its long lifespan in the atmosphere allows it to have a lasting impact on the Earth's climate system, leading to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns.
35.
How much of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, coal and natural gas?
Correct Answer
C. Over 70%
Explanation
Over 70% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, coal, and natural gas. This indicates that a significant majority of our electricity generation relies on non-renewable sources. Fossil fuels are known to contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, making it crucial for us to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
36.
Since 1990, U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have increased by about 10%.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true because it states that U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have increased by about 10% since 1990. This means that there has been a rise in the amount of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere in the United States over the past few decades.
37.
Black Carbon contributes to the warming of the atmosphere.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Black carbon, also known as soot, is a type of fine particulate matter that is produced from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biomass, and biofuels. When released into the atmosphere, black carbon absorbs sunlight and heats the surrounding air. This leads to an increase in atmospheric temperature, contributing to global warming. Therefore, the statement that black carbon contributes to the warming of the atmosphere is true.
38.
More than ____ % of what we throw away comes from cardboard and plastic packaging.
Correct Answer
30
Explanation
More than 30% of what we throw away comes from cardboard and plastic packaging. This means that a significant portion of our waste is generated by these materials, highlighting the need for proper recycling and waste management practices. Cardboard and plastic packaging are commonly used for various products, and their disposal contributes significantly to the overall waste stream. By reducing our reliance on these materials and promoting recycling, we can help minimize the environmental impact of packaging waste.
39.
When was the EPA formed?
Correct Answer
C. December 2nd, 1970
Explanation
The correct answer is December 2nd, 1970. This date is significant because it marks the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA was established by an executive order signed by President Richard Nixon in response to growing concerns about environmental pollution and the need for a centralized agency to address these issues. Since its formation, the EPA has been responsible for regulating and enforcing environmental laws, conducting research, and implementing policies to protect human health and the environment.
40.
What does VOC stand for?
Correct Answer
C. Volatile Organic Compounds
Explanation
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) refers to a group of chemicals that easily vaporize at room temperature. These compounds are commonly found in various products and materials, including paints, cleaning agents, and fuels. VOCs can have harmful effects on human health and the environment, contributing to air pollution and the formation of smog. Therefore, it is important to minimize the use of products containing VOCs and ensure proper ventilation in indoor spaces to reduce exposure to these compounds.
41.
How many gallons of water does an average dishwasher use per cycle?
Correct Answer
C. 6 gallons
Explanation
An average dishwasher uses 6 gallons of water per cycle. This indicates that during one complete cycle of the dishwasher, 6 gallons of water are consumed.
42.
When pre-rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, one can use up to ____ gallon(s) of water.
Correct Answer
20
Explanation
When pre-rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, one can use up to 20 gallons of water. This means that if someone chooses to rinse their dishes before loading them into the dishwasher, they may use as much as 20 gallons of water in the process.
43.
The typical suburban lawn consumes 10,000 gallons of water above and beyond rainwater each year.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because suburban lawns require a significant amount of water to maintain their lush appearance. This water consumption includes the irrigation needed to keep the grass green and healthy, as well as any additional water used for tasks like washing off sidewalks or driveways. This high water usage contributes to overall water waste and can put a strain on local water resources.
44.
In order to submit a comment to EPA on a proposed rule, a commentor must have their congressman sign off on the comment.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false. In order to submit a comment to EPA on a proposed rule, a commentor does not need to have their congressman sign off on the comment. The EPA accepts comments from the general public and does not require any specific endorsement or approval from a congressman.
45.
The third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities showed an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is "The third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities showed an increase in greenhouse gas emissions." The correct answer is False. This means that the third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities did not show an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.
46.
The four main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the correct answer is that carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases are indeed the four main greenhouse gases. These gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming. Carbon dioxide is the most abundant greenhouse gas and is primarily emitted through the burning of fossil fuels. Methane is released during the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas. Nitrous oxide is emitted through agricultural and industrial activities. Fluorinated gases are synthetic gases used in a variety of industrial applications.
47.
The EPA's budget for expenses in fiscal year 2013 is lower than 2012.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The EPA's budget for expenses in fiscal year 2013 is lower than 2012. This means that the amount of money allocated for expenses by the EPA in 2013 was less than what was allocated in 2012. This could be due to various reasons such as budget cuts, changes in priorities, or a decrease in funding.
48.
Which EPA seal is currently being used?
Correct Answer
A.
49.
Which one of these labels are put on products to ensure that they are environmentally safe?
Correct Answer
C.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Eco-friendly label". This label is put on products to ensure that they are environmentally safe. It indicates that the product has been manufactured with minimal impact on the environment and is designed to be sustainable throughout its lifecycle. The label helps consumers make informed choices and encourages businesses to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
50.
Who is the current EPA administrator?
Correct Answer
A. Gina McCarthy
Explanation
Gina McCarthy is the correct answer for the current EPA administrator.