9. Passage (ESS3-3)

Question

9. Passage (ESS3-3)

Proposed method to save energy and reduce pollution
Person X
Use 50% less fuel combustion motors
Person Y
Use less waste disposal sites

QUESTION:  Does Person X or Person Y have a better proposed method of reducing pollution?

PART B:  Why do you choose this method as the method that will reduce pollution the most?

–Can we do anything extra to further reduce pollution than what the above person did?

QUESTION:  How does the use of oil and other fossil fuels relate to pollution?

QUESTION:  What are the natural causes of air pollution?

GPT-4o mini · Answer

### Comparing Proposed Methods **Person X's Method: Use 50% Less Fuel Combustion Motors** **Person Y's Method: Use Less Waste Disposal Sites** ### Question: Does Person X or Person Y have a better proposed method of reducing pollution? **Answer:** Person X likely has a better proposed method for reducing pollution because reducing fuel combustion motors directly impacts air quality by decreasing emissions of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These emissions are significant contributors to air pollution and have direct health effects on humans and the environment. --- ### Part B: Reason for Choosing Person X's Method **Answer:** This method is chosen because transportation and industry are major sources of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. By reducing the usage of fuel combustion engines, we can significantly lower the amount of carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere. Additionally, moving toward alternatives such as electric vehicles or public transportation can further enhance these benefits. Increased efficiency in energy usage contributes to a cleaner environment and plays a vital role in combating climate change. **Further Reducing Pollution:** Beyond what Person X proposed, additional measures could include promoting renewable energy sources (solar, wind), increasing public transportation usage, enhancing fuel efficiency standards, incentivizing electric vehicle adoption, and implementing policies that support sustainable urban development. --- ### Question: How does the use of oil and other fossil fuels relate to pollution? **Answer:** The use of oil and other fossil fuels is a primary contributor to pollution. When fossil fuels are burned for energy, they release carbon dioxide—a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change—along with various harmful pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These emissions can lead to serious environmental and health issues, such as respiratory diseases, acid rain, and global warming. Additionally, oil extraction and transportation can lead to spills and leaks, further contaminating land and water resources. --- ### Question: What are the natural causes of air pollution? **Answer:** Natural causes of air pollution include: 1. **Volcanic Eruptions:** Release ash, sulfur dioxide, and other gases into the atmosphere. 2. **Wildfires:** Emit significant amounts of smoke, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. 3. **Dust Storms:** Lift dust and debris into the air, contributing to particulate pollution. 4. **Biological Sources:** Pollen, mold spores, and other allergens can contribute to air quality issues. 5. **Natural Gas Leaks:** Methane is released from natural sources, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. While these natural occurrences can affect air quality, human activities often amplify these effects through increased emissions from industrial processes, transportation, and other means.