Unit 6: Nuclear Waste and E-Waste

What is the primary reason that makes nuclear waste hazardous?

It emits ionizing radiation

Which of the following is a key characteristic used to categorize nuclear waste?

Radioactivity and half-life

What is the significance of the half-life of a radioactive isotope in nuclear waste?

It determines how quickly the material decays

Which category of nuclear waste primarily consists of spent nuclear fuel from reactors?

High-Level Radioactive Waste (HLW) Signup and view all the answers

What types of radiation are emitted by radioactive isotopes found in nuclear waste?

Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation Signup and view all the answers

Which items are typically included in Low-Level Radioactive Waste (LLW)?

Contaminated clothing, tools, and reactor components Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an e-waste audit?

To improve electronic waste management practices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is included in the category of infectious waste?

Used tissues and cultures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when disposing of sharps waste?

Exposure to healthcare workers Signup and view all the answers

Which type of waste contains cytotoxic drugs used in cancer treatment?

Cytotoxic Waste Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern when handling radioactive waste generated in healthcare facilities?

Preventing exposure to healthcare workers Signup and view all the answers

Which type of waste includes acids and bases that can corrode materials?

Corrosive Waste Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of proper management of chemical waste?

To ensure worker safety and prevent pollution Signup and view all the answers

Which type of nuclear waste is primarily produced from spent nuclear fuel in nuclear reactors?

High-Level Waste (HLW) Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant component of E-waste that contains both valuable metals and hazardous materials?

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of nuclear waste is considered the least hazardous category?

Low-Level Waste (LLW) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main concerns related to the informal recycling practices of e-waste in developing countries?

Exposure to toxic substances due to inadequate safety measures Signup and view all the answers

Which type of waste often contains toxic substances that can pose health risks when not properly managed?

High-Level Waste (HLW) Signup and view all the answers

Where are deep geological repositories often considered for storing nuclear waste?

Deep underground in stable geological formations Signup and view all the answers

What are some common materials found in E-waste, apart from metals and hazardous substances?

Wood and textile fibers Signup and view all the answers

Why is proper disposal of nuclear waste essential?

To prevent environmental contamination and health hazards Signup and view all the answers

What do deep geological repositories aim to achieve in the storage of nuclear waste?

Prevention of environmental contamination Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for considering e-waste a growing concern globally?

Human health risks from toxic substances in e-waste Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk associated with improper e-waste disposal in terms of soil and water contamination?

Contamination of soil and water with toxic substances Signup and view all the answers

How does burning e-waste contribute to environmental pollution?

Releases harmful pollutants into the air Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of inadequate e-waste recycling in terms of resources?

Loss of valuable materials like precious metals Signup and view all the answers

Which type of waste management poses challenges related to proper management, disposal, and minimizing impact on human health and the environment?

Nuclear waste Signup and view all the answers

What are the crucial steps mentioned in the text for addressing e-waste issues effectively?

Investing in cleaner technologies and promoting recycling Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is included in the audit process for e-waste related to scope and objectives?

Defining the scope of the audit and establishing objectives Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Inventory and Classification' involve in the audit process for e-waste?

Identifying devices that may contain hazardous materials Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect covered in 'Employee Training and Awareness' during the audit process for e-waste?

Evaluating training programs for employees involved in e-waste management Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential part of preparation while conducting an audit related to e-waste?

Preparing a comprehensive audit report summarizing findings Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of adequate packaging, labeling, and color-coding of containers for biomedical and chemical wastes?

To identify the waste nature and facilitate safe handling Signup and view all the answers

Why is segregation of biomedical and chemical wastes crucial at the point of generation?

To prevent cross-contamination Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential requirement for transportation vehicles used for biomedical and chemical wastes?

Meeting safety standards Signup and view all the answers

Why does treatment of biomedical wastes often involve methods like autoclaving and incineration?

To inactivate pathogens Signup and view all the answers

What does training programs for personnel handling biomedical and chemical wastes typically cover?

Waste segregation, packaging, and safety protocols Signup and view all the answers

Why is creating public awareness about proper disposal of medical and chemical waste crucial?

Educating healthcare professionals, laboratory staff, and the general public about potential risks Signup and view all the answers

What is a key challenge in the long-term management of nuclear waste?

Ensuring the safe isolation of hazardous materials Signup and view all the answers

Which type of electronic waste includes items like refrigerators and washing machines?

Large Household Appliances Signup and view all the answers

What are some common components found in Small Household Appliances as mentioned in the text?

Plastics, metals, electronic components Signup and view all the answers

Which health effects can result from exposure to ionizing radiation according to the text?

Genetic mutations and cancer risks Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential environmental effect of nuclear waste according to the text?

Contamination of soil and water Signup and view all the answers

Why is e-waste a growing environmental concern as per the text?

Because of the increasing use of electronic devices Signup and view all the answers

What are some hazardous substances commonly found in e-waste according to the text?

Heavy metals and toxic substances Signup and view all the answers

What can improper disposal of nuclear waste lead to as per the text?

Soil and water contamination Signup and view all the answers

What are some common components of Lighting Equipment mentioned in the text?

Mercury in fluorescent lamps, electronic components Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for segregating biomedical waste at the point of generation?