C12:The Earths Resources

Question 1

State the difference between finite and renweable resources,using examples.

Answer 1

Finite are non renweable,these are usually extracted from the earth but are not replaceable meaning once they are finished its done and the process has to go over again,these include fossil fuels like uranium and metals found in earth
Renwable can be done over and over again and can last forever,these resources include timber that can be regrown,fresh water and food are also renewable.

Question 2

Give three positive effects of recycling metals…

Answer 2

• Uses much less energy than is needed,meaning wasted less wasted energy.
• Conserves finite amount of each metal and cuts amount of waste going to landfill.
• Can be shaped into a new product,giving it a longer shelf life

Question 3

Give two ways scientists are improving copper sustainability…

Answer 3

• Bioleaching,bacteria used to convert copper compounds in the orde into soluble copper compounds.
• Phytomining,growing plants in soil that contains copper.It gradually builds up on the leaves.They can then be burnt into ash that contains copper compounds that are extracted throught displacement.

Question 4

What are the four stages needed to be considered to conduct a life cycle assesment?

Answer 4

• Getting the raw materials : can damage local environment (e.g mining) , Need to be processed which takes up lots of energy.
• Manufacturing and Packaging : cause lots of pollution as harmful fuels like hydrogen chloride are used , take up lots of energy
• Using the product : The life span of it means less energy wasted in producing more in the long run , environmental damage
• Product disposal , landfill = pollutes land and water , incineration causes air pollution.