Bio 465

Front 1

1. Acid rain can cause reductions in biodiversity as a result of:
A. direct toxicity B. increased buffering capacity C. depletion of food supply D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 1

E. A and C.

Front 2

2. Acid precipitation:
A. is always limited to an area within a mile or so of the source of emissions B. is generally limited to an area
within a few (3-5) miles of the source of emissions C. is generally limited to an area within several (6-15) miles
from the source of emissions D. may occur hundreds of miles from the source of emissions E. affects the whole
globe uniformly.

Back 2

D. may occur hundreds of miles from the source of emissions E. affects the whole
globe uniformly.

Front 3

3. The pH of natural rainfall is ______, and the pH of acid rain is ______.
A. 6.8 / > 9.0 B. 5.6 / < 5.5 C. 6.8 / < 1.5 D. 5.6 / < 1.5 E. 5.5; > 7.0.

Back 3

B. 5.6 / < 5.5

Front 4

4. Most fish eggs cannot hatch below pH 5.

Back 4

true

Front 5

5. Acid precipitation is likely to have the greatest economic impact on humans through:
A. adverse health effects caused by direct contact B. adverse health effects caused by mobilization of toxic
elements C. dieoffs of forests and aquatic ecosystems D. dieoffs of agricultural crops E. deterioration of
building materials

Back 5

E. deterioration of
building materials

Front 6

6. Adverse effects of air pollution and/or acid rain on the environment are currently being documented in such
findings as:
A. decline of fish populations in increasing numbers of lakes and rivers B. loss of buffering capacity for some
aquatic ecosystems C. decline of growth rate of forests D. all of these E. A and C

Back 6

D. all of these

Front 7

7. Which organism is the most tolerant of low pH?
A. bass B. frogs C. clams D. snails E. mayfly

Back 7

B. frogs

Front 8

Acid rain can weaken trees by:
A. damaging their leaves B. limiting the nutrients available to them C. exposing them to toxic substances slowly
released from the soil D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 8

D. all of these

Front 9

9. Which of the following are major sources of acid deposition?
A. carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide B. volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides C. lead and radon D.
sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides E. carbon monoxide and radon

Back 9

D.
sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides

Front 10

10. Acid fog can leach away nutrients from leaves.

Back 10

true

Front 11

11. Forest trees are more susceptible to acid deposition than crop plants because:
A. forest trees tend to be found at higher elevations B. forest trees do not receive additional fertilizer C. forest
trees tend to grow in poorer soils D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 11

D. all of these

Front 12

12. Biological effects of acid deposition include:
A. acid stress on adult fish B. increased aluminum toxicity C. acid stress on juvenile fish D. all of these E. A
and C.

Back 12

D. all of these

Front 13

13. As a result of burning fossil fuels, sulfur dioxide may be produced because of impurities in the fuel.

Back 13

true

Front 14

14. The most significant source of sulfur dioxide emissions into the atmosphere has been found to be:
A. coal-burning power plants B. nuclear power plants C. cars D. sewage treatment plants E. refuse dumps.

Back 14

C. cars

Front 15

The processes associated with acid rain or acid rain deposition include all of the following except:
A. emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere via factory and automobile exhausts B.
oxidation and complex reactions involving sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere C. a rise in pH
levels in lakes and streams D. "dry" deposition of sulfur dioxide or nitrogen oxides on vegetation, soil, etc. can
later react with moisture to produce acid E. chemical reaction with limestone that damages buildings and
monuments.

Back 15

C. a rise in pH
levels in lakes and streams

Front 16

Normal precipitation is slightly acidic because ________ is dissolved in it.
A. carbon dioxide B. radon C. VOCs D. carbon monoxide E. oxygen

Back 16

A. carbon dioxide

Front 17

Which rock type is most effective at buffering acid precipitation?
A. granite B. limestone C. sandstone D. clay-rich rocks E. loam

Back 17

B. limestone

Front 18

Two lakes are close to each other and receive roughly the same acidic precipitation. One lake has turned acidic in
recent years while the other lake is still neutral. This can best be explained by:
A. acidification due to an acidic spring feeding one but not the other B. acidification due to midnight dumping C.
difference in buffering capacity of the two lakes D. wind patterns moving over hills and mountains E. none of the
above

Back 18

C.
difference in buffering capacity of the two lakes

Front 19

Which of the following would tend to buffer (reduce) the effects of acid rain?
A. granite underlying a lake B. thin soils C. calcium-carbonate-rich soils D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 19

C. calcium-carbonate-rich soils

Front 20

1. PANs are thought to contribute much of the eye-stinging effect of urban smog.

Back 20

true

Front 21

2. Fluids such as gasoline, paint solvents, and organic cleaning solutions release:
A. volatile organic compounds B. sulfur oxides C. suspended particulate matter D. nitrogen oxides E. carbon
monoxide.

Back 21

A. volatile organic compounds

Front 22

Which of the following is a source of indoor air pollution?
A. fuel-fired heating systems B. household cleaners C. aerosol sprays D. all of these E. A and C

Back 22

D. all of these

Front 23

Smog:
A. is a word derived from "smoke" and "fog" B. that consists of grayish soot, sulfurous compounds, and water
vapor is called industrial smog C. that consists primarily of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic carbon
compounds from motor vehicles is called photochemical smog D. all of these E. A and C

Back 23

D. all of these

Front 24

Secondary pollutants differ from primary pollutants in that they are not:
A. as dangerous as primary pollutants B. emitted directly into the air as are primary pollutants C. eliminated
from the atmosphere as easily as are primary pollutants D. as abundant as primary pollutants E. natural
components of the atmosphere.

Back 24

B. emitted directly into the air as are primary pollutants

Front 25

Pollutants which bring on life-threatening reactions within a period of hours or days are called:
A. chronic B. acute C. carcinogenic D. teratogenic

Back 25

B. acute

Front 26

The most significant source of all the major air pollutants is:
A. combustion of fuels and wastes B. volcanoes C. forest fires D. sewage treatment plants E. respiration

Back 26

A. combustion of fuels and wastes

Front 27

Particulate pollutants introduced into the atmosphere may have which of the following effects?
A. block or reflect incoming sunlight, reducing the amount of photosynthesis B. act as condensation nuclei,
decreasing precipitation C. adhere to plant surfaces and prevent adsorption of CO2 and O2 D. all of these E. A
and C

Back 27

E. A and C

Front 28

At very low concentrations, ground-level ozone can trigger:
A. aggravated asthma B. increased lung capacity C. increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses D. all of
these E. A and C.

Back 28

A. aggravated asthma

Front 29

10. Chronic oral exposure to asbestos can cause lung cancer.

Back 29

false

Front 30

PM2.5 is of concern because they can embed in lung tissue for long periods.

Back 30

true

Front 31

Plants are less susceptible to ozone and sulfur dioxide than are humans.

Back 31

false

Front 32

Complete combustion (oxidation) of hydrocarbons yields innocuous gaseous products.

Back 32

true

Front 33

An aerosol mixture of particulates and sulfur compounds forms a grayish colored substance that is called:
A. photochemical smog B. industrial smog C. brown smog D. urban smog E. inversion smog

Back 33

B. industrial smog

Front 34

High concentrations of ozone that exceed health standards are sometimes found in the atmosphere over rural and
wilderness areas.

Back 34

true

Front 35

VOCs include:
A. benzenes B. asbestos C. alkanes D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 35

E. A and C.

Front 36

Standards that are set for air pollutants are open to controversy because:
A. some persons are much more sensitive than others B. it is impossible to assay all the potential synergistic
effects C. it is impossible to assay all the long-term effects D. all of these E. A and C

Back 36

D. all of these

Front 37

Pollutants whose impact on human health is to cause a gradual deterioration of several physiological processes are
called:
A. chronic B. acute C. carcinogenic D. teratogenic

Back 37

A. chronic

Front 38

In the lower atmosphere, ozone is produced by:
A. photochemical reactions B. emissions from coal plants C. ultraviolet-B radiation D. oxidation of CO2 E.
reduction of natural hydrocarbons.

Back 38

A. photochemical reactions

Front 39

Atmospheric inversion conditions over urban areas pose a problem primarily because:
A. the conditions are conducive to photochemical smog B. pollutants are trapped and concentrated C. the
inhabitants can be cut off from oxygen D. many sensitive plants and animals freeze to death E. CFCs are
concentrated and destroy protective ozone.

Back 39

B. pollutants are trapped and concentrated

Front 40

Factors that determine the level of local air pollution include:
A. the amount of pollutants entering the air B. the volume of air into which the pollutants are dispersed C. the
mechanisms that remove pollutants from the air D. all of these E. A and C

Back 40

D. all of these

Front 41

Factors that determine the level of local air pollution include:
A. the amount of pollutants entering the air B. the volume of air into which the pollutants are dispersed C. the
mechanisms that remove pollutants from the air D. all of these E. A and C

Back 41

D. all of these

Front 42

Pollutants capable of causing cancer in animals are called:
A. chronic B. acute C. carcinogenic D. teratogenic

Back 42

C. carcinogenic

Front 43

Which of the following are direct products of burning fuels or wastes?
A. volatile organic compounds B. ozone C. particulates D. all of these E. A and C

Back 43

E. A and C

Front 44

PM can contain:
A. heavy metals B. ozone C. dust particles D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 44

E. A and C.

Front 45

At the prevailing atmospheric levels of NO2, health effects are severe.

Back 45

false

Front 46

Carbon monoxide (CO) is:
A. a yellow-brown gas that contributes to photochemical smog B. a colorless and odorless gas that binds to
hemoglobin in blood C. a colorless and odorless gas that damages the lungs D. a gas with a "rotten egg" odor that
is highly toxic and corrosive E. a reactive gas produced, in part, by photochemical reaction of sunlight with
various air pollutants.

Back 46

B. a colorless and odorless gas that binds to
hemoglobin in blood

Front 47

Ozone and PANs are examples of ________ pollutants.
A. primary B. secondary C. threshold D. tertiary E. oxidative.

Back 47

B. secondary

Front 48

All of the following are considered to be common indoor air pollutants EXCEPT:
A. formaldehyde B. radon C. asbestos D. cigarette smoke E. sulfuric acid.

Back 48

E. sulfuric acid.

Front 49

A temperature inversion occurs when:
A. cooler air moves in from the north, displacing warmer air B. warmer air moves in from the south, displacing
cooler air C. cooler air lies above warmer air D. warmer air lies above cooler air.

Back 49

D. warmer air lies above cooler air.

Front 50

Ozone is of great benefit in the stratosphere but of great harm to humans in the lower troposphere. Which of the
following is NOT an effect on people?
A. strong eye irritant B. aggravates asthma C. reduces the ability of the circulatory system to transport oxygen
D. injury to cells in the respiratory system E. coughing and chest discomfort.

Back 50

C. reduces the ability of the circulatory system to transport oxygen

Front 51

In people with heart disease, short-term exposures to particulates have been linked to heart attacks and arrhythmias.

Back 51

true

Front 52

Health effects of VOCs include:
A. nerve damage B. bone marrow damage C. cancer D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 52

D. all of these

Front 53

Photochemical smog is produced when _________ and _________ are acted on by sunlight.
A. nitrogen oxides / volatile organic carbon compounds B. sulfur oxides / carbon dioxide C. airborne
particulates / volatile organic carbon compounds D. ground-level ozone / nitrogen oxides.

Back 53

A. nitrogen oxides / volatile organic carbon compounds

Front 54

NO and NO2 suppress plant growth by:
A. supressing photosynthesis B. being converted to NH3 (which is toxic) C. inhibiting lipid biosynthesis D. all
of these E. A and C.

Back 54

B. being converted to NH3 (which is toxic)

Front 55

How is photochemical smog produced?
A. depletion of tropospheric ozone + SOx B. petroleum production in urban areas C. incineration of toxic waste
D. solar radiation + NOx + organic compounds E. burning of coal in urban areas + SOx.

Back 55

D. solar radiation + NOx + organic compounds

Front 56

It is difficult to pinpoint which specific air pollutant is responsible for which adverse effect because:
A. organisms are exposed to many different pollutants simultaneously B. levels of pollutants in the air are
constantly changing C. there may be synergistic effects D. all of these E. A and C

Back 56

D. all of these

Front 57

Chlorofluorocarbons cause destruction of ozone in the stratosphere.

Back 57

true

Front 58

Sources of CFC's in the atmosphere include:
A. refrigerants B. electrical component cleaning solvents C. some aerosol can propellants D. all of these E. A
and C.

Back 58

D. all of these

Front 59

At this point in time, the most practical way to cope with depletion of the ozone shield is to:
A. produce more ozone at ground level B. terminate production of CFCs by finding substitutes C.
photochemically produce more ozone in the stratosphere D. all of these E. A and C

Back 59

B. terminate production of CFCs by finding substitutes

Front 60

Damage to the ecological structure and function of lakes because of deeper penetration of UVB light may be caused
by:
A. ozone depletion. B. acid deposition. C. global warming. D. all of these E. A and C

Back 60

A. ozone depletion.

Front 61

Effects of UVB on early developmental stages of fish, shrimp, and crab include:
A. decreased reproductive capacity B. increased cancer incidence C. impaired larval development D. all of
these E. A and C.

Back 61

E. A and C.

Front 62

Exposure to UVB radiation is thought to be a leading cause of skin cancer.

Back 62

true

Front 63

In phytoplankton, exposure to solar UVB radiation has been shown to affect:
A. orientation mechanisms B. motility C. primary production D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 63

D. all of these

Front 64

In plants, exposure to UVB can cause changes in:
A. plant form B. how nutrients are distributed within the plant C. timing of developmental phases D. all of these
E. A and C.

Back 64

D. all of these

Front 65

Ozone in the stratosphere:
A. blocks 99 percent of the ultraviolet radiation from entering the troposphere B. is a natural constituent of the
atmosphere C. is destroyed through reactions with chloroflurocarbons D. all of these E. A and C

Back 65

D. all of these

Front 66

Ozone in the stratosphere:
A. is a pollutant B. impairs plant and animal metabolic function C. is a carcinogen D. all of the above E. none
of the above

Back 66

E. none of the above

Front 67

The so-called "hole" in the ozone layer over the South Pole is really an area where ozone concentrations have
decreased by approximately 50 percent; i.e., it is a "thinning" of the ozone.

Back 67

true

Front 68

Thinning of the ozone layer is most evident above:
A. Africa B. North America C. Antarctica D. South America E. none of the above

Back 68

C. Antarctica

Front 69

UVB has been demonstrated to cause:
A. nonmelanoma skin cancer B. cataracts C. malignant melanoma D. all of these E. A and C

Back 69

D. all of these

Front 70

Which of the following statements are true?
A. CFCs are relatively unreactive compounds. B. Ultraviolet radiation will cause CFCs to break down and release
chlorine. C. One chlorine molecule may convert 100,000 molecules of ozone to molecular oxygen. D. all of these
E. A and C.

Back 70

D. all of these

Front 71

Which of the following will probably NOT be a consequence of extreme ozone layer depletion?
A. more severe sun burning B. more cases of skin cancer C. more cases of lung cancer D. more cases of
blindness E. damage (burning) to leaves of agricultural crops and forest trees.

Back 71

C. more cases of lung cancer

Front 72

The consequences of rapid climate change over decades might include:
A. premature deaths from lack of food. B. reduction in earth's biodiversity. C. increased death from heat and
disease. D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 72

D. all of these

Front 73

Factors that favor cooling of the Earth's surface include:
A. reflection of solar radiation by clouds B. absorption of solar radiation by atmospheric particulates and aerosol
produced by volcanic activity C. removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through global photosynthetic
activity D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 73

D. all of these

Front 74

Climate change is expected to contribute to decreases in respiratory disorders caused by smog (ground-level ozone)
events.

Back 74

false

Front 75

The major greenhouse gases are:
A. carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane B. carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, and water vapor C. oxygen,
nitrogen, and carbon dioxide D. chlorine, fluorine, methane and CFCs E. methane, oxygen, nitrogen.

Back 75

A. carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane

Front 76

5. The region of the atmosphere closest to the Earth's surface is the stratosphere.

Back 76

false

Front 77

6. The troposphere is that area of the atmosphere from the ground level to ten miles above the Earth's surface.

Back 77

true

Front 78

7. Butterflies’ habitat ranges in North America have shifted lower in elevation as temperatures increased.

Back 78

false

Front 79

The overall or net annual concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is being:
A. decreased by respiration B. increased by burning fossil fuels C. increased by photosynthesis D. all of these
E. A and C

Back 79

B. increased by burning fossil fuels

Front 80

The major anthropogenic source of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is/are:
A. refrigerants, solvents and fire retardants B. microbial fermentation of organic matter in coal mines, oil well,
and livestock C. emissions from chemical fertilizers D. evaporation from the Earth's oceans E. combustion of
fossil fuels

Back 80

E. combustion of
fossil fuels

Front 81

If global temperatures increase, trees with what types of seed dispersal will be fastest to migrate northward?
A. wind dispersal B. bird dispersal C. mammal dispersal D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 81

B. bird dispersal

Front 82

Repeated or prolonged bleachings have proven to be fatal for some coral reefs, primarily due to the loss of nutrients
that the algae provide for the coral.

Back 82

false

Front 83

A rise in sea level is least likely to:
A. flood areas where one-third of the world's human population lives. B. save the coral reefs. C. accelerate
coastal erosion. D. contaminate coastal aquifers. E. disrupt coastal fisheries.

Back 83

B. save the coral reefs

Front 84

13. Experiments suggest that tree growth rates may increase with increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Back 84

true

Front 85

All of the following greenhouse gases have significantly increased in recent decades EXCEPT:
A. carbon dioxide. B. methane. C. water vapor. D. nitrous oxide.

Back 85

C. water vapor

Front 86

An increase in average temperature can:
A. shorten the growing season in regions with a relatively cool spring and fall B. beneficially affect crops in
regions where summer heat already limits production C. increase soil evaporation rates D. all of these E. A and
C.

Back 86

C. increase soil evaporation rates

Front 87

16. The most abundant greenhouse gas in the atmosphere is water vapor.

Back 87

true

Front 88

During the months of the year when photosynthesis predominates over respiration in terrestrial ecosystems, carbon
dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere:
A. decrease slightly B. increase slightly C. stay the same D. There are no data to answer this.

Back 88

A. decrease slightly

Front 89

A greenhouse gas which is produced in the stomachs of ruminant animals and is increasing in concentrations in the
troposphere is:
A. CFCs B. carbon dioxide C. methane D. nitrous oxide E. carbon monoxide.

Back 89

C. methane

Front 90

How might global warming increase the risk of human infectious disease?
A. eutrophication would decrease B. mosquitoes and other vectors could become more prevalent C. increased
risk of skin cancer D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 90

B. mosquitoes and other vectors could become more prevalent

Front 91

20. Climate change can result only from human activities that change the atmosphere's composition.

Back 91

false

Front 92

21. A likely effect of global warming is lowering ocean levels because of evaporation.

Back 92

false

Front 93

Climate change can increase the risk of extinction for many species, especially those that are already endangered or
at risk due to:
A. isolation by geography or human development B. low population numbers C. a narrow temperature tolerance
range D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 93

D. all of these

Front 94

As a result of climate change:
A. the timing of bird arrival in the Arctic may no longer coincide with the availability of their insect food sources
B. important breeding and nesting areas are projected to decrease sharply as trees shift their range northward C.
more tundra area, and thus more habitat for birds and their prey, will disappear D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 94

D. all of these

Front 95

Greenhouse gases:
A. transmit infrared radiation but absorb visible radiation B. transmit visible radiation but absorb infrared
radiation C. transmit both infrared radiation and visible radiation D. none of the above.

Back 95

B. transmit visible radiation but absorb infrared
radiation

Front 96

Increased greenhouse gases originate from:
A. burning fossil fuels B. ozone depletion C. deforestation D. all of these E. A and C

Back 96

E. A and C

Front 97

Direct temperature effects of climate change may include an increase in the incidence of heat waves, which can
especially affect people with heart problems and asthma.

Back 97

true

Front 98

What are some potential biological effects of a warmer climate on forests in the United States?
A. lower-elevation habitats (such as western Douglas fir forests) expanding into the higher alpine zone B. less
frequent forest fires C. encroachment of warm-adapted species into alpine meadows D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 98

E. A and C.

Front 99

28. The primary source of the greenhouse gas methane is the burning of fossil fuel.

Back 99

false

Front 100

29. Higher levels of ground level ozone can limit the growth of crops.

Back 100

true

Front 101

What impacts might global warming have on fish?
A. some bodies of water may become too warm for the fish that currently inhabit those areas B. the amount of
oxygen in some waters may increase C. increased mortality of eggs and larvae D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 101

E. A and C.

Front 102

31. One would expect to find less carbon dioxide in the atmosphere during late spring to early autumn.

Back 102

true

Front 103

Insect vector-borne diseases which could increase as a result of climate change include:
A. malaria B. cholera C. dengue fever D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 103

E. A and C.

Front 104

Examples of point sources of nutrient pollution include:
A. industrial discharges B. stormwater runoff C. thermal discharges from power plants D. all of these E. A
and C

Back 104

A. industrial discharges

Front 105

High turbidity in natural waters can be caused by:
A. growth of phytoplankton B. too few fish C. sediment loading D. all of these E. A and C

Back 105

E. A and C

Front 106

The two most important nutrients for stimulating entrophication are:
A. nitrogen and phosphorus B. carbon and oxygen C. pesticides and heavy metals D. sodium and chlorine E.
lead and mercury.

Back 106

A. nitrogen and phosphorus

Front 107

4. Dissolved oxygen is often depleted downstream of the point where water high in organic wastes is discharged.

Back 107

true

Front 108

Examples of nonpoint source pollutants include:
A. sediment runoff B. industrial effluents C. nutrients from the land D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 108

E. A and C.

Front 109

6. Sludge generated from municipal sewage is commonly used as fertilizer.

Back 109

true

Front 110

In shallow water, excess nutrients shift water quality in ways that favor the growth of phytoplankton at the expense
of benthic plants.

Back 110

true

Front 111

Oxygen gets into surface waters (streams, lakes, ponds, etc.) by:
A. dissolution of gases from the atmosphere B. absorption by photosynthesizing terrestrial plants C. release from
photosynthesizing aquatic plants D. all of these E. A and C

Back 111

C. release from
photosynthesizing aquatic plants

Front 112

Solving the problem of eutrophication may involve:
A. advanced sewage treatment to remove nutrients B. banning the use of detergents containing phosphates C.
controlling erosion to prevent sediment pollution D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 112

D. all of these

Front 113

As forests and wetlands are replaced by farms, cities, and suburbs, the amount of nutrients entering surface waters
is decreasing.

Back 113

false

Front 114

11. Natural waters that are high in nutrients are called eutrophic.

Back 114

true

Front 115

Turbidity:
A. is a measure of water clarity B. increases with excessive sediments loading C. usually is associated with
nutrients D. all of these E. A and C

Back 115

D. all of these

Front 116

Chemical treatments with herbicides to control the growth of phytoplankton:
A. may be detrimental to bottom-rooted plants B. are short-lasting; algae regrows as soon as chemicals dissipate
C. do not address the root causes of the problem D. all of these E. A and C

Back 116

D. all of these

Front 117

Eutrophication refers to the ecosystem changes that occur with the introduction of:
A. waterborne diseases B. excess nutrients C. chemical pollutants D. pesticides E. synthetic organic
compounds.

Back 117

B. excess nutrients

Front 118

Organic wastes are considered important water pollutants because:
A. they stimulate excessive growth of detritus feeders B. they stimulate excessive growth of bacteria C. they
reduce water clarity D. all of these E. A and C

Back 118

D. all of these

Front 119

Examples of nonpoint source pollutants include:
A. fertilizers B. pesticides C. stormwater runoff D. all of these E. A and C

Back 119

D. all of these

Front 120

17. Lack of nutrients in water limits the growth of phytoplankton.

Back 120

true

Front 121

The greatest hazard of domestic sewage wastes is its:
A. potential for harboring disease-causing organisms B. content of toxic chemicals C. potential for causing
eutrophication D. potential for depleting dissolved oxygen E. bad odor.

Back 121

A. potential for harboring disease-causing organisms

Front 122

Farm practices which decrease the degree of eutrophication include:
A. not farming to the very edge of natural waterways B. no-till farming techniques C. use of organic fertilizers
D. all of these E. A and C

Back 122

D. all of these

Front 123

20. In the United States today, most sewage treatment plants remove nutrients from the wastewater stream.

Back 123

true

Front 124

All of the following will probably reduce the amount of oxygen dissolved in stream or lake water EXCEPT:
A. thermal pollution B. algal "blooms" C. accelerated eutrophication D. sewage waste discharged into the
water E. heavy metals such as lead and mercury.

Back 124

E. heavy metals such as lead and mercury.

Front 125

22. North America's largest estuary is the Chesapeake Bay.

Back 125

true

Front 126

A great risk of dense populations is that if an individual gets sick, the disease can spread rapidly throughout the rest
of the population.

Back 126

true

Front 127

Nitrogen can enter surface waters from:
A. surface runoff B. nitrogen fixation C. precipitation D. all of these E. A and C

Back 127

D. all of these

Front 128

The main reason to separate sewage and storm water runoff is to:
A. avoid fecal contamination of storm runoff B. prevent contamination of the sewage with oils and chemicals
from roadways C. reduce the volume of waste entering the wastewater treatment plant D. all of these E. A and
C

Back 128

D. all of these

Front 129

26. Runoff from farms is generally declining as farmers adopt nutrient management and runoff control techniques

Back 129

true

Front 130

Benthic organisms grow/live:
A. suspended in the water column B. attached to the bottom C. on top of the water surface D. within the guts of
aquatic organisms E. 10-20 inches deep within the sediment.

Back 130

B. attached to the bottom

Front 131

Sediments entering waterways in large amounts is detrimental to water quality because:
A. they increase the turbidity of water B. they are often accompanied by large amounts of nutrients C. they shift
the ecological balance of water in favor of algae, bacteria, protozoa and detritus feeders D. all of these E. A and
C

Back 131

D. all of these

Front 132

Sediments aggravate the problem of eutrophication because:
A. they absorb dissolved oxygen B. they contribute to reduced light levels C. they decrease water depths D. all
of these E. A and C

Back 132

D. all
of these

Front 133

Which of the following is a problem associated with sediment pollution?
A. nutrient enrichment of surface waters B. filling in of reservoirs C. blocking sunlight to photosynthesizing
aquatic organisms D. all of these E. A and C

Back 133

D. all
of these

Front 134

Low dissolved oxygen is generally associated with nutrient enrichment because:
A. phytoplankton uses oxygen in photosynthesis B. nutrients absorb dissolved oxygen C. dead phytoplankton
leads to an increased oxygen demand on the part of decomposers D. competition between phytoplankton and fish
for oxygen E. the oxygen combines with carbon in dead organic material to produce carbon dioxide.

Back 134

C. dead phytoplankton
leads to an increased oxygen demand on the part of decomposers

Front 135

The process whereby chemical pollutants become concentrated through passage up the food chain is called:
A. bioaccumulation B. biomagnification C. biodegradation D. biological oxygen demand E. none of the
above.

Back 135

B. biomagnification

Front 136

33. Phosphorus from sewage treatment plans has declined sharply, in large part because of the phosphate detergent ban.

Back 136

true

Front 137

Causes of eutrophication include:
A. excess organic wastes from livestock farms B. excess nutrients from waste treatment facilities C. excess
fertilizers D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 137

D. all of these

Front 138

35. Point source pollutants are the easiest to regulate because they enter water bodies from specific locations.

Back 138

true

Front 139

Which of the following has NOT contributed to accelerated eutrophication of surface waters?
A. over-fertilization of agricultural fields B. destruction of natural wetlands C. erosion from deforested slopes
D. establishment of riparian woodlands E. All of the above have contributed.

Back 139

D. establishment of riparian woodlands

Front 140

BOD is:
A. a measure of the biological demand for oxygen B. a measure of water clarity C. a measure of the amount of
organic matter in water that can serve as food for microbes and detritus feeders D. all of these E. A and C

Back 140

E. A and C

Front 141

Effects of oil pollution on birds includes:
A. drowning B. hyperthermia C. loss of flight D. all of these E. A and C

Back 141

E. A and C

Front 142

2. Marsh vegetation, especially root systems, is easily damaged by fresh light oils.

Back 142

true

Front 143

3. Before an oil-affected bird can be released, it must demonstrate buoyancy and water-repellency.

Back 143

true

Front 144

Effects of oil pollution on birds includes:
A. damage to internal organs B. increase in the number of eggs laid C. pneumonia D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 144

E. A and C.

Front 145

5. Because the polar bear is not a marine mammal, it is not susceptible to the effects of oil pollution.

Back 145

false

Front 146

Oil spills occurring in marine environments are more frequent and often more destructive to the environment than
freshwater spills.

Back 146

false

Front 147

Fish absorb oil that is dissolved in water though their gills, accumulating it within the liver, stomach, and gall
bladder.

Back 147

true

Front 148

Which of the following methods were effective in cleaning up the oil spill from the Exxon Valdez?
A. burning B. chemical dispersants C. mechanical cleanup D. all of these E. A and C

Back 148

E. A and C

Front 149

Factors which increase the ability of an oil spill to spread include:
A. low surface tension B. high specific gravity C. low viscosity D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 149

E. A and C

Front 150

Because oil contamination can give fish and other animals different tastes and smells, predators will sometimes
consume more of them.

Back 150

false

Front 151

Once an oil-affected bird has been brought to a rehabilitation center:
A. oil is flushed from its eyes B. the birds must often be force-fed C. stomach-coating medicines may be
administered orally D. all of these E. A and C

Back 151

D. all of these

Front 152

An oil spill can harm birds and mammals by:
A. direct physical contact B. destruction of food sources C. toxicity D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 152

D. all of these

Front 153

The risk from oil pollution to animal life in exposed sandy, gravel or cobbled beaches is less than in other habitats,
such as tidal flats.

Back 153

true

Front 154

Marine mammals such as sea otters and fur seals are at lower risk of hypothermia than are animals that have a layer
of blubber, such as walruses and sea lions.

Back 154

false

Front 155

15. The oil tanker Exxon Valdez spilled approximately 11 thousand gallons of crude oil in Prince William Sound.

Back 155

false

Front 156

16. Oil matting causes fur and feathers to lose their insulating properties.

Back 156

true

Front 157

Light refined oil products, such as gasoline and kerosene:
A. spread on water surfaces and penetrate porous soils quickly B. have low fire and toxic hazards C. evaporate
quickly and leave little residue D. all of these E. A and C

Back 157

E. A and C

Front 158

To increase biodegradation of oil spills, nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are sometimes added to the
water.

Back 158

true

Front 159

19. Marsh environments are among the most sensitive freshwater habitat to oil spills due to the minimal water flow.

Back 159

true

Front 160

20. Sea birds and diving birds face the highest risks from oil pollution.

Back 160

true

Front 161

21. Marine organisms such as fish and whales are more likely to be harmed by an oil spill than turtles and seals.

Back 161

false

Front 162

Weathering is a series of chemical and physical changes that cause spilled oil to break down and become lighter
than water.

Back 162

false

Front 163

Because an otter will try to return to a habitat that is still contaminated by oil, released otters are tagged with
tracking devices.

Back 163

true

Front 164

24. Of all wildlife, fish are the most likely to be harmed by oil spills.

Back 164

false

Front 165

Freshwater habitats can be affected by oil spills in the following ways:
A. tidal flats trap the oil, affecting the bottom-dewlling organisms B. salt marsh vegetation is easily damaged by
oil C. shoreline plants such as cattails can be coated D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 165

D. all of these

Front 166

A crop is sprayed with a pesticide to control an insect infestation. The infestation subsides, then a few weeks later,
it becomes worse. This phenomenon is known as:
A. resurgence B. a synergistic effect C. resistance D. a secondary pest outbreak E. none of these.

Back 166

A. resurgence

Front 167

The mode of action for glyphosate is:
A. photosynthesis inhibitor B. growth regulator C. amino acids synthesis inhibitor D. acetylcholinesterase
inhibitor E. axonic poison.

Back 167

C. amino acids synthesis inhibitor

Front 168

3. One of the most commonly-used active ingredients of pesticides is glyphosate.

Back 168

true

Front 169

A _______ causes changes in genetic material, and a _______ causes the formation of malignant tumors.
A. teratogen, mtuagen B. teratogen, carcinogen C. carcinogen, teratogen D. mutagen, teratogen E. mutagen,
carcinogen.

Back 169

E. mutagen,
carcinogen.

Front 170

Diazinon:
A. is a non-systemic organo-phosphate insecticide B. is used to control a wide variety of sucking and leaf eating
insects C. is an ingredient in pest strips D. all of these E. A and C

Back 170

D. all of these

Front 171

6. Agricultural use accounts for the majority of pesticide use.

Back 171

true

Front 172

Which of the following pesticides are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors?
A. organophosphates B. triazines C. pyrethroids D. all of these E. A and C

Back 172

A. organophosphates

Front 173

The mode of action for pyrethroids is:
A. photosynthesis inhibitor B. growth regulator C. amino acids synthesis inhibitor D. acetylcholinesterase
inhibitor E. axonic poison.

Back 173

E. axonic poison.

Front 174

9. Toxic effects of organophosphates are due to the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase.

Back 174

true

Front 175

First generation pesticides were abandoned or outlawed because:
A. they contained heavy metals like lead, mercury and arsenic B. they exhibited both bioaccumulation and
biomagnification C. pests quickly developed resistances to these pesticides D. all of these E. A and C

Back 175

D. all of these

Front 176

11. Permethrin acts as a contact poison through direct contact with target pests.

Back 176

true

Front 177

A non-systemic pesticide is a pesticide applied to a plant which is absorbed into its sap and so distributed
throughout the plant to make all parts of it poisonous to pests, without harming the plant.

Back 177

false

Front 178

Referring to a pesticide as "broad spectrum" means that:
A. a small amount covers a large area B. it is effective against a wide variety of pests C. it holds great potential
for the future D. all of these E. A and C

Back 178

B. it is effective against a wide variety of pests

Front 179

Referring to a pesticide as "broad spectrum" means that:
A. a small amount covers a large area B. it is effective against a wide variety of pests C. it holds great potential
for the future D. all of these E. A and C

Back 179

B. it is effective against a wide variety of pests

Front 180

2,4-D is highly toxic to:
A. humans B. most broad leaf crops C. wildfowl D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 180

B. most broad leaf crops

Front 181

The pesticides cycle includes:
A. runoff B. leaching C. vaporization D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 181

D. all of these

Front 182

The phenomenon that certain species of insects which had not previously caused significant harm became serious
pests is known as:
A. resurgence B. a synergistic effect C. resistance D. a secondary pest outbreak E. a mutation

Back 182

D. a secondary pest outbreak

Front 183

The concentration of a toxicant in the environment that is lethal to one-half (50%) of experimental animals exposed
to it is referred to as the LD50 for that toxicant.

Back 183

true

Front 184

The mode of action for phenoxy herbicides is:
A. photosynthesis inhibitor B. growth regulator C. amino acids synthesis inhibitor D. acetylcholinesterase
inhibitor E. axonic poison.

Back 184

B. growth regulator

Front 185

A pesticide that does not absorb strongly to soil particles and has a lengthy environmental half-life would be
expected to have a low potential for groundwater contamination.

Back 185

false

Front 186

20. Biomagnification is bioaccumulation through several trophic levels of a food chain.

Back 186

true

Front 187

2,4-D:
A. functions as a systemic herbicide B. contains high levels of dioxin C. is a major component of Agent Orange
D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 187

E. A and C.

Front 188

In the course of using some pesticides, it was observed that:
A. some pest insects became increasingly resistant B. many pests were effectively controlled C. species of
insects that had not previously caused significant damage became serious pests D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 188

D. all of these

Front 189

For it to be active, a systemic pesticide needs to dissolve in water and enter the plants through their roots.

Back 189

true

Front 190

The mode of action for triazines is:
A. photosynthesis inhibitor B. growth regulator C. amino acids synthesis inhibitor D. acetylcholinesterase
inhibitor E. axonic poison.

Back 190

A. photosynthesis inhibitor

Front 191

25. Atrazine is a weed-killer used mostly on farms.

Back 191

true

Front 192

26. Chronic toxicity results from short-term, low level exposure to a toxicant.

Back 192

false

Front 193

Which of the following pesticides affect the nervous system?
A. organophosphates B. triazines C. pyrethroids D. all of these E. A and C

Back 193

E. A and C

Front 194

The term "natural background" for dioxins refers to the dioxins that are in the environment from natural processes
plus dioxins from manmade sources.

Back 194

false

Front 195

2. POPs can circulate globally via the atmosphere, oceans, and other pathways.

Back 195

true

Front 196

The toxicity of a PCB is dependent not only upon the number of chlorines present, but the positions of the
chlorines.

Back 196

true

Front 197

Studies of workers exposed to PCBs found increases in:
A. rare liver cancers B. lung cancer C. malignant melanoma D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 197

E. A and C

Front 198

POPs are a set of chemicals that:
A. are generally toxic B. persist in the environment for long periods of time C. biomagnify D. all of these E.
A and C.

Back 198

D. all of these

Front 199

6. There is clear evidence that PCBs cause cancer in animals.

Back 199

true

Front 200

7. DDT lasts for a much shorter time in the environment in temperate regions than it does in the tropics.

Back 200

false

Front 201

8. PCBs with larger numbers of chlorines are less toxic.

Back 201

false

Front 202

Past uses for PCBs included:
A. hydraulic fluids B. fluorescent light ballasts C. insulators D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 202

D. all of these

Front 203

The mechanisms of eggshell thinning as a result of chronic DDT exposure are not fully understood, but are thought
to be related to effects from its major metabolite, DDE.

Back 203

true

Front 204

DDT was NOT used for controlling:
A. numerous kinds of insects on agricultural crops B. lice on humans C. weeds D. malaria-carrying insects E.
flies in dairy barns.

Back 204

C. weeds

Front 205

The potency and fundamental level at which dioxins act on biological systems appears to be analogous to several
well studied hormones.

Back 205

false

Front 206

13. PCBs stick strongly to soil and will not usually be carried deep into the soil with rainwater.

Back 206

true

Front 207

DDT accumulates in higher doses in what body tissue in animals?
A. muscle B. bone C. adipose D. nervous E. skin.

Back 207

C. adipose

Front 208

Today, PCBs can still be released into the environment from:
A. poorly maintained hazardous waste sites that contain PCBs B. illegal or improper dumping of PCB wastes C.
leaks or releases from electrical transformers containing PCBs D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 208

D. all of these

Front 209

Potentially adverse effects that have been reported to be associated with exposure to dioxin and related compounds
in human populations at or near average background levels include:
A. delay of developmental milestones B. impacts on immune function C. elevated incidence of adult onset
diabetes D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 209

D. all of these

Front 210

People in the United States are exposed to DDT mainly by eating foods containing small amounts of these
compounds.

Back 210

true

Front 211

18. PCBs may remain in your body and be stored for years, mainly in the fat and liver.

Back 211

true

Front 212

Babies can be exposed to DDT by drinking breast milk, but DDT from the mother cannot enter her unborn baby
through the placenta.

Back 212

false

Front 213

20. The most studied (and one of the most toxic) dioxins is TCDD.

Back 213

true

Front 214

21. Leafy vegetables generally contain more DDT than other vegetables.

Back 214

true

Front 215

22. Small daily doses of DDT causes tremors and seizures.

Back 215

false

Front 216

Because dioxins from natural and anthropogenic sources have been widely distributed throughout the environment,
almost every living creature except humans has been exposed to dioxins.

Back 216

false

Front 217

24. DDT is still used in some other areas of the world, most notably for controlling malaria.

Back 217

true

Front 218

Dioxins break down so slowly that some of the dioxins from past releases will still be in the environment many
years from now.

Back 218

true

Front 219

Dioxins are:
A. produced inadvertently by a number of human activities B. created intentionally C. created by natural
processes D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 219

E. A and C.

Front 220

27. PCBs with larger numbers of chlorines are more resistant to biodegradation.

Back 220

true

Front 221

28. Most human dioxin exposure occurs through the diet, through dietary intake of animal fats.

Back 221

true

Front 222

29. PCBs especially accumulate in fish and marine mammals.

Back 222

true

Front 223

Dioxins are formed during:
A. commercial or municipal waste incineration B. forest fires C. chlorine bleaching of pulp and paper D. all of
these E. A and C.

Back 223

D. all of
these

Front 224

The major dietary sources of PCBs are:
A. fish (especially sportfish that were caught in contaminated lakes or rivers) B. green leafy vegetables C. meat
and dairy products D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 224

E. A and C.

Front 225

32. The types of PCBs that tend to bioaccumulate in fish are the least carcinogenic components of PCB mixtures.

Back 225

false

Front 226

33. The most common health effect in people exposed to large amounts of dioxin is chloracne.

Back 226

true

Front 227

In the course of using synthetic chemical pesticides such as DDT, it has been observed that certain species of
insects which had not previously caused significant harm have become serious pests. The best explanation for this
phenomenon is that:
A. the pesticide killed off predators which had previously held this species in check B. a mutation occurred in the
species C. the pesticide increased the vigor of the species D. DDT was able to be used by the pest as an
additional food source E. DDT is also a reproductive stimulator for some insect species.

Back 227

A. the pesticide killed off predators which had previously held this species in check

Front 228

POPs have been found in bogs, snow, and animals in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, far from where they were
ever used.

Back 228

true

Front 229

36. PCBs collect in milk fat and can enter the bodies of infants through breast-feeding.

Back 229

true

Front 230

Which of the following was NOT one of the apparent advantage(s) of DDT?
A. broad spectrum of effect B. persistent C. relatively non-toxic to humans D. inexpensive to produce E.
stimulated plant growth

Back 230

E.
stimulated plant growth

Front 231

PCBs have been shown to cause a number of serious health effects in animals, including effects on the:
A. immune system B. reproductive system C. nervous system D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 231

D. all of these

Front 232

Consumer products that still may contain PCBs include old fluorescent lighting fixtures and appliances.

Back 232

true

Front 233

PCBs:
A. have a low degree of reactivity B. are flammable C. have good insulating properties D. all of these E. A
and C.

Back 233

E. A
and C.

Front 234

Which of the following are members of the "dirty dozen" POPs?
A. DDT B. dioxin C. PCBs D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 234

D. all of these

Front 235

DDT is highly toxic to:
A. fish B. humans C. aquatic invertebrates D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 235

E. A and C.

Front 236

Which is NOT a source of elemental mercury released to the air?
A. fossil fuel combustion B. mining and smelting C. solid waste incineration D. microbial methylation E.
production of cement.

Back 236

D. microbial methylation

Front 237

People may be exposed to lead when they:
A. live near hazardous waste sites B. cook in improperly glazed pottery or ceramic dishes C. have hobbies in
which lead is used D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 237

D. all of these

Front 238

In the United States, lead can still be found in:
A. some paint pigments B. gasoline for automobiles C. ammunition and sinkers D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 238

E. A and C.

Front 239

4. Once lead falls onto soil, it sticks strongly to soil particles and remains in the upper layer of soil.

Back 239

true

Front 240

5. Small amounts of lead from lead pipe or solder may be released into water when the water is acidic.

Back 240

true

Front 241

You can be exposed to mercury vapors from:
A. the use of fungicides that contain mercury B. damaged or broken fluorescent light bulbs, barometers, and
thermometers C. contaminated clothes, furniture, and carpets D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 241

D. all of these

Front 242

7. Studies in workers exposed to metallic mercury vapors have shown mercury-related increases in cancer.

Back 242

false

Front 243

8. Organic arsenic compounds are much more toxic than inorganic arsenic compounds.

Back 243

false

Front 244

9. It is more hazardous to swallow metallic mercury than it is to breathe mercury vapors.

Back 244

false

Front 245

Metallic mercury that enters the blood will generally accumulate in the:
A. brain B. liver C. kidneys D. muscles E. bones

Back 245

C. kidneys

Front 246

Dental fillings are potential sources of metallic mercury.

Back 246

true

Front 247

Which form of mercury is most easily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract?
A. elemental B. inorganic C. methlymercury D. they are all about the same.

Back 247

C. methlymercury

Front 248

Mercury methylation is greater when the water has:
A. higher pH and lower DOC levels B. higher pH and higher DOC levels C. lower pH and higher DOC levels
D. lower pH and lower DOC levels.

Back 248

C. lower pH and higher DOC levels

Front 249

Food sources that have been found to contain high levels of mercury include:
A. fish B. corn C. shellfish D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 249

E. A and C.

Front 250

Methylmercury:
A. is converted from inorganic mercury by microorganisms B. usually stays on the surface of sediments or soil
C. is likely to settle to the bottom in aquatic environments D. all of these E. none of these.

Back 250

D. all of these

Front 251

Symptoms of mercury poisoning include:
A. personality changes B. tremors C. difficulties with memory D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 251

D. all of these

Front 252

17. The main target for lead toxicity is the teeth and bones.

Back 252

false

Front 253

18. The nervous system is more sensitive to methylmercury toxicity than are other organs in the body.

Back 253

true

Front 254

Common forms of mercury found in the environment are:
A. metallic mercury B. mercuric sulfide (cinnabar ore) C. methylmercury D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 254

D. all of these

Front 255

20. Most of the arsenic that enters the body will be gone within several days.

Back 255

true

Front 256

21. Mercury releases from natural sources have remained relatively constant in recent history.

Back 256

true

Front 257

22. Most of the toxicity to the residents of Minamata resulted from ingestion of methylmercury.

Back 257

true

Front 258

The number of people drinking arsenic-rich water in Bangladesh has increased dramatically since the 1970s due to
well-drilling and population growth.

Back 258

true

Front 259

24. The largest use for lead is in storage batteries in cars and other vehicles.

Back 259

true

Front 260

25. In the past, inorganic mercury was widely used in medicinal products for internal use.

Back 260

true

Front 261

26. Arsenic can cross the placenta and has been found in fetal tissues.

Back 261

true

Front 262

Dental amalgams:
A. contain approximately 50% metallic mercury B. have been determined to be a significant health hazard to the
general population C. release small amounts of mercury due to corrosion or chewing D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 262

E. A and C.

Front 263

28. Once organic mercury is in the bloodstream, it moves easily to most tissues and readily enters the brain.

Back 263

true

Front 264

Although most of the exposure pathways for metals are the same for children as those for adults, children may be at
a higher risk of exposure because of normal hand-to-mouth activity.

Back 264

true

Front 265

Mercury enters the environment as the result of:
A. weathering of minerals in rocks and soil B. volcanic activity C. human activity D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 265

D. all of these

Front 266

31. Methylmercury can be more harmful to bird embryos when selenium is present in the diet.

Back 266

true

Front 267

Exposure to mercury can result in:
A. nervous system damage B. gastrointestinal tract damage C. kidney damage D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 267

D. all of these

Front 268

In many relatively pristine areas, mercury concentrations have increased because atmospheric deposition has
increased.

Back 268

true

Front 269

34. States with fish consumption advisories for mercury are located mostly in the Southwest.

Back 269

false

Front 270

35. Most of the amount of lead taken into the body of an adult will be excreted within a couple of weeks.

Back 270

true

Front 271

36. Mercury levels found in most surface water are quite high.

Back 271

false

Front 272

A characteristic effect of chronic oral exposure to inorganic arsenic is a darkening of the skin and the appearance of
small "corns" or "warts" on the palms, soles, and torso.

Back 272

true

Front 273

38. Adults absorb a higher proportion of ingested lead than do children.

Back 273

false

Front 274

39. In critical periods of development before they are born, and in the early months after birth, children and fetuses are
particularly sensitive to the harmful effects of metallic mercury and methylmercury on the:
A. endocrine system B. nervous system C. reproductive system D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 274

B. nervous system

Front 275

Exposure to lead in the womb may:
A. slow mental development B. cause children to be born prematurely and have lower weights at birth C. cause
lower intelligence later in childhood D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 275

D. all of these

Front 276

In Bangladesh:
A. most drinking-water used to be collected from open dug wells and ponds B. the arsenic contamination of
groundwater is of geological origin C. the most commonly manifested effect of arsenic so far is skin lesions. D.
all of these E. A and C.

Back 276

D.
all of these

Front 277

42. "Pressure treated" wood that is currently sold for residential use contains arsenic.

Back 277

false

Front 278

43. Inorganic and organic arsenic compounds are still used as pesticides in the United States.

Back 278

false

Front 279

Exposure to arsenic can result from:
A. eating food B. drinking water C. breathing air D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 279

D. all of these

Front 280

45. Children are more sensitive to the health effects of lead than adults.

Back 280

true

Front 281

Which of these metals have been classified by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as a
carcinogen?
A. lead B. mercury C. arsenic D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 281

E. A and C.

Front 282

47. Most of the total amount of lead in the body is contained in the bones and teeth.

Back 282

true

Front 283

Very small amounts of metallic mercury (for example, a few drops) can raise air concentrations of mercury to
levels that may be harmful to health.

Back 283

true

Front 284

49. Children may be exposed to lead by hand-to-mouth contact after exposure to lead-containing soil or dust.

Back 284

true

Front 285

Which type of organism will be likely to contain the most methylmercury?
A. sharks B. wheat C. small fish D. all will have about the same amount

Back 285

A. sharks

Front 286

Which type of organism will be likely to contain the most methylmercury?
A. sharks B. wheat C. small fish D. all will have about the same amount

Back 286

A. sharks

Front 287

51. Most of the high levels of lead found throughout the environment come from human activities.

Back 287

true

Front 288

Environmental sources of arsenic include:
A. wind-blown dust from soils and minerals B. lakes, rivers, or underground water C. incineration of waste
products D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 288

D. all of these

Front 289

How is lead released into the environment?
A. through releases from mining B. during the burning of coal, oil, or wastes C. weathering and chipping of
lead-based paint D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 289

D. all of these

Front 290

Exposure to environmental estrogens can be from:
A. diet B. household products C. drinking water D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 290

D. all of these

Front 291

2. Certain substances can mimic hormones by binding to specific hormone receptors inside cells.

Back 291

true

Front 292

Estrogenic chemicals are found in:
A. pesticides B. plastics C. detergents D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 292

D. all of these

Front 293

Phytoestrogens occur naturally in plants such as:
A. soybeans B. whole grains C. fruits and vegetables D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 293

D. all of these

Front 294

5. Proven estrogenic compounds are no longer being manufactured and used worldwide.

Back 294

false

Front 295

6. Two weakly estrogenic compounds can be more potent, or produce more effect, than one compound by itself.

Back 295

true

Front 296

7. All environmental estrogens have a similar chemical structure.

Back 296

false

Front 297

Based on animal studies, possible male human health effects of endocrine disrupting compounds could include low
sperm counts and testicular cancer.

Back 297

true

Front 298

Some identified effects of EDCs in wildlife include:
A. abnormal blood hormone levels B. increased fertility C. skewed sex ratios D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 298

E. A and C.

Front 299

10. Some endocrine disrupters indirectly turn genes on and alter cell growth and division.

Back 299

true

Front 300

Exposure of a developing embryo to environmental estrogens has been linked to:
A. undescended testicles B. malformed Fallopian tubes C. altered sexual behavior D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 300

D. all of these

Front 301

Animals can and do accumulate endocrine disrupters in their fat and can pass them along to offspring and
predators.

Back 301

true

Front 302

Once bound with the receptor, the endocrine disrupter can:
A. produce a normal hormone response B. enhance the binding of natural hormones C. prevent natural hormones
from binding D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 302

E. A and C.

Front 303

In the town of Seveso, a significant increase in breast cancer risk with higher dioxin exposures was found more
than 10 years after initial exposure.

Back 303

true

Front 304

In females, estrogens:
A. foster development of female characteristics B. regulate liver metabolism C. protect bone strength and the
cardiovascular system D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 304

D. all of these

Front 305

Endocrine disrupters alter hormonal functions by:
A. mimicing the sex steroid hormones estrogens and androgens B. increasing hormonal binding to receptors C.
altering production and breakdown of natural hormones D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 305

E. A and C.

Front 306

Reproductive hormones regulate:
A. growth B. immunity C. metabolism D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 306

D. all of these

Front 307

Examples of reproductive effects of environmental estrogens include:
A. male juvenile alligators living in Florida's Lake Apopka had smaller than normal penises and abnormal testes
B. daughters of mothers who took the synthetic estrogen DES during pregnancy had higher rates of lung cancer C.
male fish living near municipal sewage outlets in England had both male and female sex characteristics D. all of
these E. A and C.

Back 307

E. A and C.

Front 308

19. Naturally-occurring compounds capable of producing estrogenic responses are called phytoestrogens.

Back 308

true

Front 309

20. DDT, some PCBs, and many phytoestrogens bind to estrogen receptors.

Back 309

true

Front 310

21. Only a specific hormone can trigger a specific receptor into action.

Back 310

false

Front 311

22. Natural hormones are less potent than any of the known synthetic environmental estrogens.

Back 311

false

Front 312

23. DDT has been shown to bypass the estrogen receptor (and thus stimulate cell division), but cannot bind to it.

Back 312

false

Front 313

1. Some states export their municpal solid waste to other states for processing.

Back 313

true

Front 314

Epidemiologic studies to assess whether adverse health effects have occurred near individual solid waste
incinerators have been unable to detect any effects.

Back 314

true

Front 315

The exhaust gases from waste incineration facilities may contain:
A. particulate matter B. dioxins and furans C. polycyclic aromatic compounds D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 315

D. all of these

Front 316

4. The Microtox test is based upon the use of Ceriodaphnia dubia, a luminescent bacterium.

Back 316

false

Front 317

Which of the following species are used in acute aquatic toxicity testing?
A. Ceriodaphnia dubia B. Pimephales promelas C. Vibrio fischeri D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 317

E. A and C.

Front 318

Which of the following common household items should NOT be disposed of in landfills?
A. batteries B. toilet cleaners C. oil or enamel based paint D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 318

D. all of these

Front 319

The degree of adverse effects to human health from exposure to hazardous air pollutants are dependent upon:
A. the ambient concentration in the area B. the characteristics of exposed individuals C. pollutant-specific
characteristics D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 319

D. all of these

Front 320

8. The largest components of municipal solid waste are metals.

Back 320

false

Front 321

9. Organic matter in most landfills is usually completely digested by aerobic organisms.

Back 321

false

Front 322

Hazardous air pollutants released from municipal solid waste landfills include:
A. toluene B. lead C. vinyl chloride D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 322

E. A and C.

Front 323

Under normal operating conditions, waste incinerators produce incomplete combustion of the combustible portion
of waste and emit significant amounts of pollutants of concern.

Back 323

false

Front 324

Fly ash:
A. is a by product of solid waste incineration. B. is usually placed in landfills. C. may be contaminated with
heavy metals. D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 324

D. all of these

Front 325

Some of the problem(s) associated with storing solid waste in landfills is/are:
A. surface subsidence B. methane production C. ground water contamination D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 325

D. all of these

Front 326

Municipal solid waste:
A. includes all of the materials thrown away from homes B. never includes any organic waste, petroleum
products and pesticides C. includes all of the materials thrown away from commercial enterprises D. all of these
E. A and C.

Back 326

E. A and C.

Front 327

Common material(s) in municipal solid waste is/are:
A. glass. B. paper products. C. plastics. D. metals. E. all of the above

Back 327

E. all of the above

Front 328

Most municipal solid waste is:
A. organic matter. B. metals. C. water. D. soil. E. none of the above.

Back 328

E. none of the above.

Front 329

There is usually a good correlation between total ambient concentrations of persistent pollutants and local
emissions from an incinerator.

Back 329

false

Front 330

Persistent pollutants for which incinerators have contributed a substantial portion of the total national emissions
include:
A. dioxins B. fly ash C. DDT D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 330

A. dioxins

Front 331

After pollutants from an incineration facility disperse into the air, people close to the facility may be exposed
directly through inhalation or indirectly through consumption of contaminated food or water.

Back 331

true

Front 332

20. Landfill gas is primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide.

Back 332

true

Front 333

Leachate from landfills may include:
A. pesticides B. plastics C. petroleum products D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 333

E. A and C.

Front 334

22. Heavy metals that may be present in the solid waste fed into an incinerator are often destroyed during combustion.

Back 334

false

Front 335

The majority of emissions of air pollutants at municipal solid waste landfills come from natural aerobic
decomposition.

Back 335

false

Front 336

24. Vinyl chloride exposure has been shown to increase the risk of a rare form of liver cancer in humans.

Back 336

true

Front 337

Which of the following chemicals might be found in landfill lechate?
A. toluene B. lead C. benzene D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 337

D. all of these

Front 338

26. The principal gaseous products of waste incineration are carbon dioxide and water vapor.

Back 338

true

Front 339

The greatest component of municipal solid waste is:
A. yard waste B. metal C. glass D. paper and paperboard E. plastics.

Back 339

D. paper and paperboard

Front 340

28. Leachate is the mixture of water and chemicals that drains from the bottom of landfills.

Back 340

true

Front 341

What criteria did the EPA use to decide that there is no significant risk of horizontal gene flow from Bt corn?
A. the number of chromosomes in donor and recipient B. distance of pollen transfer C. the amount of seed
dispersal D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 341

A. the number of chromosomes in donor and recipient

Front 342

2. Bt corn was engineered to be resistant to the European Corn Borer.

Back 342

true

Front 343

If non-GE plants acquire a transgene for herbicide resistance from a GE crop plant:
A. their offspring will be resistant to the herbicide B. herbicide-resistant volunteers of crop plants might prove
more difficult to control C. farmers might no longer be able to use that particular herbicide to control weeds D.
all of these E. A and C.

Back 343

D.
all of these

Front 344

What criteria did the EPA use to decide that there is no significant risk of harm to the Monarch butterfly from Bt
corn?
A. percent survival to pupation B. levels of the Bt proteins that are likely to be found in the field C. adult weight
D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 344

E. A and C.

Front 345

5. Pollen from plants that are wind or insect pollinated does not travel considerable distance from the plant.

Back 345

true

Front 346

6. Herbicide tolerant soybeans may actually increase the total quantity of herbicides applied.

Back 346

true

Front 347

The EPA has determined that there is a significant risk of gene capture and expression of Bt endotoxin by wild or
weedy relatives of corn, cotton, and potato in the U.S.

Back 347

false

Front 348

Because most crops grown in the U.S. are native to the United States, most have wild relatives that they could
cross-pollinate.

Back 348

false

Front 349

9. TheBt-toxin CRYIAb kills moths, butterflies, as well as insects in other families.

Back 349

false

Front 350

10. Horizontal gene flow is the movement of genes from one organism to another.

Back 350

true

Front 351

Bt-toxins:
A. are cut in the insect's digestive system into a smaller piece that is highly toxic to insects B. bind to a specific
receptor on the surface of human and insect intestinal cells C. cause a disruption of electrolyte balance, leading to
death D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 351

E. A and C.

Front 352

A ten-year study of commercially-released GE crops determined that they are no more likely to grow outside an
agricultural field than their non-GE counterparts.

Back 352

true

Front 353

Resistance to glyphosate is engineered into a plant by adding a gene that encodes a glyphosate-resistant version of
the enzyme EPSPS.

Back 353

true

Front 354

Many traits in crop plants that are detrimental to their ability to "act like a plant in the wild." include:
A. large, starchy seeds with thinner coats B. seeds that stay attached to the plant C. larger fruit with fewer (or
no) seeds D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 354

D. all of these

Front 355

Genetically engineered crops that are widely-grown in the U.S. include:
A. corn B. potatoes C. soybeans D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 355

E. A and C.

Front 356

16. Reductions of insecticide use on Bt cotton have been minimal or insignificant.

Back 356

false

Front 357

17. Genes that are engineered into plants can be transmitted to non-GE plants, but not any of the other non-GE genes.

Back 357

false

Front 358

One result of the appearance of herbicide-resistant weeds might be the reduced use of the genetically engineered
crop.

Back 358

false

Front 359

19. The cotton bollworm, tobacco budworm, and pink bollworm are all are moth larvae.

Back 359

true

Front 360

Traits that tend to make a plant more "weedy" include the production of:
A. long-lived seeds B. new seeds all at once C. a large number of seeds D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 360

E. A and C.

Front 361

21. Roundup-Ready soybeans were engineered to resist applications of the herbicide glufosinate.

Back 361

false

Front 362

Which of the following strategies have been used to make plants resistant to herbicides?
A. the GE plant produces a new protein which detoxifies the herbicide B. the surface of the GE plant becomes
impenetrable to the herbicide C. the protein in the plant which is normally the target of the herbicide's action is
replaced by a new protein which is unaffected by the herbicide D. all of these E. A and C.

Back 362

E. A and C

Front 363

Many of the traits presently genetically engineered into plants increase the fitness of the plant but do not affect the
weediness of the plant.

Back 363

true

Front 364

Pollen from one plant may fertilize other plants of the same species, but never plants of other closely-related
species.

Back 364

false

Front 365

25. Genetically engineered plants with Bt-based insect resistance produce an insect toxin in all of their tissues.

Back 365

true

Front 366

26. Broad-spectrum herbicides kill all (or most) plants, and thus cannot be applied directly onto a field of crop plants.

Back 366

true