1.
Which place was the world's largest landfill before it was set aside as parkland?
Correct Answer
D. Fresh Kills
Explanation
Fresh Kills is the correct answer because it was the world's largest landfill before it was transformed into parkland. Located on Staten Island in New York City, Fresh Kills Landfill was once a massive dumping ground for New York City's waste. However, in 2001, it was closed and a plan was initiated to convert the site into a park. The transformation of Fresh Kills Landfill into a park is an innovative example of repurposing and reclaiming land for public use and environmental restoration.
2.
Which of these is also known as the "Eastern Garbage Patch"?
Correct Answer
D. Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Explanation
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is also known as the "Eastern Garbage Patch." This is a large area in the Pacific Ocean where marine debris, mainly consisting of plastic waste, accumulates due to ocean currents. It is estimated to be twice the size of Texas and is a significant environmental concern.
3.
Which of these crops is used to produce food, clothing, fuel, fiberboard, and paper?
Correct Answer
C. Hemp
Explanation
Hemp is the correct answer because it is a versatile crop that can be used to produce various products such as food, clothing, fuel, fiberboard, and paper. Hemp seeds can be used to make oil, protein powder, and other food products. The fibers from the hemp plant can be used to make clothing, textiles, and rope. Hemp can also be used as a biofuel source. Additionally, the fibers can be processed to make fiberboard, which is used in construction, and paper.
4.
Which animal can be raised the most cheaply and efficiently for human consumption?
Correct Answer
A. Chicken
Explanation
Chicken can be raised the most cheaply and efficiently for human consumption because they require less space, feed, and time to reach maturity compared to other animals. They have a high feed conversion rate, meaning they can convert feed into body weight efficiently. Chickens also have a shorter lifespan, allowing for quicker turnover and higher production rates. Additionally, their small size makes them easier to handle and process, reducing labor and infrastructure costs. Overall, raising chickens is a cost-effective and efficient option for meeting the demand for animal protein.
5.
In which country were 89% of all homes heated by geothermal energy in 2006?
Correct Answer
D. Iceland
Explanation
In 2006, Iceland had the highest percentage of homes heated by geothermal energy, with 89% of all homes utilizing this renewable energy source. This is because Iceland is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, resulting in a high concentration of geothermal activity. The country has harnessed this natural resource to provide heating and electricity to a significant portion of its population, making it a global leader in geothermal energy utilization.
6.
Which of these plants is threatened by the clearing of scrublands for grazing purposes?
Correct Answer
B. Black Lace Cactus
Explanation
The Black Lace Cactus is threatened by the clearing of scrublands for grazing purposes because it is a plant that typically grows in arid regions, such as scrublands. When these scrublands are cleared for grazing, the cactus loses its natural habitat and may not be able to survive. This puts the Black Lace Cactus at risk of being threatened or even becoming extinct.
7.
In 2008, which actor worked with the Sierra Club to promote its 2% Solution campaign?
Correct Answer
C. William Shatner
Explanation
William Shatner is the correct answer because he worked with the Sierra Club in 2008 to promote its 2% Solution campaign.
8.
What percentage of a coal power plant's energy is lost as waste heat?
Correct Answer
D. 65%
Explanation
Approximately 65% of a coal power plant's energy is lost as waste heat. This is because coal power plants convert only about 35% of the energy in coal into electricity, while the remaining 65% is released as waste heat into the environment. This waste heat is primarily in the form of hot gases and steam that are generated during the combustion process and are not utilized to produce electricity. As a result, a significant amount of energy is lost as waste heat in coal power plants.
9.
Which of these Asian watersheds has the greatest average population density?
Correct Answer
A. Ganges
Explanation
The Ganges watershed has the greatest average population density among the listed Asian watersheds. This can be attributed to several factors such as the high population density in the countries through which the Ganges River flows, including India and Bangladesh. The Ganges River basin is also a highly fertile region, which attracts a large population for agriculture and other economic activities. Additionally, the Ganges is considered a sacred river in Hinduism, leading to the establishment of many religious and cultural centers along its banks, further contributing to the population density in the area.
10.
In August 2008, what alternative energy source did Google announce plans to invest $10 million in?
Correct Answer
B. Geothermal
Explanation
In August 2008, Google announced plans to invest $10 million in geothermal energy. Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from the Earth's core to generate electricity. This investment by Google demonstrates their commitment to exploring and supporting alternative energy sources that are sustainable and have a lower environmental impact. Geothermal energy has the potential to provide a reliable and renewable source of power, making it an attractive option for Google's investment.
11.
When car switches are scrapped, what toxic element can be released?
Correct Answer
D. Mercury
Explanation
When car switches are scrapped, the toxic element that can be released is mercury. Mercury is commonly found in various components of older cars such as switches, sensors, and relays. When these components are improperly disposed of or scrapped without proper handling, mercury can be released into the environment. Mercury is highly toxic and can have detrimental effects on human health and the ecosystem if not handled and disposed of properly.
12.
Who founded the Sierra Club?
Correct Answer
B. John Muir
Explanation
John Muir is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the founder of the Sierra Club. Muir was an influential conservationist and naturalist who played a crucial role in the establishment of the club in 1892. He was passionate about preserving the natural environment and played a key role in advocating for the protection of national parks and wilderness areas. Muir's efforts and leadership in the Sierra Club have had a lasting impact on environmental conservation in the United States.
13.
Who said: "We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one."?
Correct Answer
D. Jacques Cousteau
Explanation
Jacques Cousteau is the correct answer because he was a renowned French oceanographer and conservationist who emphasized the interconnectedness of the water cycle and the life cycle. He believed that the health of our planet depends on understanding and protecting the delicate balance between water and life. His quote highlights the importance of recognizing this connection and the impact it has on our environment.