Question 1
The most accurate statement regarding the trend toward urbanization is:
The trend toward urbanization has brought many benefits to people and societies, but many consequences too.
Critique of other statements:
- The first statement is misleading because urbanization typically decreases wildlife habitat and can increase water pollution due to runoff and concentration of human activities.
- The second statement is overly optimistic; while urbanization provides benefits, it often comes with environmental consequences such as pollution, habitat loss, and resource depletion.
- The fourth statement incorrectly assumes that urbanization leads to less light and water pollution; typically, urban areas experience more pollution issues rather than less.
Question 2
The impact on the physical environment caused by acid rain is:
increased tree death.
Explanation: Acid rain can harm trees by damaging leaves, leaching nutrients from the soil, and leading to increased susceptibility to disease.
Question 3
The criticism of using reservoirs regarding irrigation is:
Flooding can potentially occur and harm wildlife and land.
Explanation: While reservoirs can support irrigation, they can also lead to flooding, which can disrupt ecosystems and damage land.
Question 4
An effect of desalination on the environment is:
Brine can kill ocean wildlife.
Explanation: The process of desalination produces brine, which is often dumped back into the ocean and can be detrimental to marine life due to its high salt concentration.