Energy resources and environmental pollution (L7)

Question 1

The use of water as a dumping place

Answer 1

Water pollution will only become a problem if the emissions are able to build up
(role of residence times)

Question 2

How will the size of emission release effect pollution

Answer 2

The amount release will affect the concentration

Question 3

How will the volume of water affect pollution

Answer 3

Larger body of water means more dilution of the waste

Question 4

Residence time of the water

Answer 4

Water cycle - natural purification process
Pure water leaves the sea, vegetation etc
This carries suspended particle including pollutants
Shorter residence time = pollutant will not build up and cause a problem

Question 5

Conditions for degradation

Answer 5

UV - Photochemical degradation
Dissolved oxygen - aid the breakdown by aerobic bacteria
High temp - increase the rate of reactions

Question 6

How do conditions control new substances produced

Answer 6

Pollutants in aerated surface waters are more likely to be oxidised
Those in deep water sediments are likely to be chemically reduced

Question 7

Why are sediments so good at removing pollutants

Answer 7

Absorb onto descent particles
Pesticides
Phosphates

Question 8

Case study - Mediterranean Sea

Answer 8

Countries have pollutant problems like mercury, fertiliser,