Environmental Science Quiz

Isotopes that do not release protons or neutrons. They are not radioactive.

Isotopes that spontaneously release radiation due to changes in the nucleus. Also known as radioactive isotopes.

The ratio of neutrons to protons (n/p) in an atom's nucleus. It's a key factor in predicting the stability of an isotope.

Nuclei with an even number of protons and neutrons are generally more stable than those with odd numbers.

Atoms with an atomic number greater than 83 are unstable. They tend to be radioactive.

The measure of the amount of dissolved salts present in water.

The acidity or basicity of water. Measured using a scale from 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most basic).

A measure of how well light can pass through water, influenced by suspended particles like sediment and algae.

A measure of the amount of suspended solid particles in water that make it appear cloudy.

A measure of how well water absorbs and retains odors. Can be influenced by the decomposition of organic matter or substances added to wastewater.

The size of particles that make up soil, determined by the proportion of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter.

A scientific method for cleaning up contaminated soil. It involves a collaborative effort of various fields like engineering, chemistry, and environmental science.

Soil pollution is the contamination of soil with harmful substances. It affects human health and the environment.

Soil remediation aims to reduce contaminants in the soil, clean groundwater, improve vegetation growth, and ensure clean air.

The choice of soil remediation method depends on the type and severity of contamination, the location of the contamination, and the environmental conditions.

Industrial waste, deforestation, excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, and garbage pollution are some of the main sources of soil pollution.

Soil pollution leads to climate change, loss of soil fertility, and ultimately, poor crop yields.

Soil is a complex environment consisting of biotic and abiotic components. It's roughly half solids (minerals, organic matter) and half air and water.

A type of fuel commonly used in automobiles due to its ability to combust easily and mix well with air.

Raw petroleum extracted from the Earth's crust, composed of various hydrocarbons and other organic substances.

A flammable liquid hydrocarbon used as a fuel in kerosene lamps, domestic heaters, and jet engines.

A combustible liquid fuel for diesel engines, derived from crude oil fractions less volatile than gasoline.

A process where crude oil is transformed into usable petroleum products like gasoline, kerosene, and diesel.

The process by which organic remains accumulate on the ocean floor over millions of years, forming the basis for oil and natural gas.

Geological processes that bring oil and natural gas deposits closer to the surface, making them accessible for extraction.

A concern associated with liquid fuels due to their flammability and the risk of fire hazards.

The ability of muscles to contract and relax, essential for movement.

A mineral crucial for balancing electrolytes and water in the body, supporting nervous and cardiac function.

Found naturally in some water sources and added to others to prevent tooth decay. It's also present in toothpaste.

Essential for aquatic ecosystems, it's vital for fish and other aquatic animals to survive.

The temperature of water, influencing oxygen levels and the ability of organisms to withstand pollutants.

The measure of acidity or alkalinity in water, determined by a pH scale.

Common standards that assess water quality based on the health of ecosystems and the safety of human contact and drinking water.

The most common standards used to assess water quality related to the health of ecosystems and the safety of human contact and drinking water.

A type of bacteria that indicates the presence of fecal contamination in water.

Measures the ability of water to conduct electricity, indicating dissolved mineral content.

The clarity of water, determined by how far light can penetrate.

The level of dissolved oxygen in water, essential for aquatic life.

A chemical compound that can cause excessive algae growth in water.