Energy resources and environmental pollution (L12)

Question 1

Specificity of pesticides

Answer 1

Few pesticides are so specific that they only kill the pest or target organism
Different degrees of toxicity therefore they may only become a problem if NTS are exposed to high doses

Question 2

persistence of pesticides

Answer 2

Pesticides that are chemically stable are more likely to travel longer distances and bioaccumulate

Question 3

Bio accumulation of pesticides

Answer 3

Some pesticides may be stored faster than they are broken down
Gradual build up in the body
May produce toxic concentrations

Question 4

Bio-magnification of pesticides

Answer 4

The pesticides that have bio-accumulated in one organism may be further concentrated when they are eaten by predators

Question 5

Mobility of pesticides

Answer 5

Pesticides that are mobile are more likely to affect other areas

Question 6

What are the direct affects of pesticide pollution

Answer 6

Cause harm by being toxic
Inhibit metabolic processes
Breeding rates reduced

Question 7

What are the indirect affects of pesticide pollution

Answer 7

Species interdependance - reduced food availability

Predators may become more common

Question 8

What are the different groups of insecticides

Answer 8

Organochlorines
Organophosphates
Pyrethroids

Question 9

What are organochlorines

Answer 9

High insect toxicity
Low mamal toxicity
persistent and liposoluble

Question 10

What are organophosphates

Answer 10

Not persistent or liposoluble

Much higher toxiicity to animals

Question 11

What are Pyrethroids

Answer 11

Not presistent or liposoluble

Low mammal toxicity

Question 12

What are the methods of reducing pesticide pollution

Answer 12

Restriction on use
Use of non-persistent pesticides
Use of specific pesticides
Use of systemic pesticides
Biological control and other non-chemical techniques
Pest resistant crops 
Better application techniques