Copper is a mined mineral commonly used in plumbing and wiring. As Earth’s population increases, copper use also increases. Which of these statements show ways this increased use of copper affects Earth itself?

Question

A. The amount of available copper ore decreases.

B. Copper becomes more expensive because it is rarer.

C. People are encouraged to recycle copper.

D. Pollution from mining increases.

(1 point)
Responses

A, B, C, and D
A, B, C, and D

A and B
A and B

A and D
A and D

B and C
B and C

Answer 1

The best response to show ways the increased use of copper affects Earth itself is:

A and D

• A. The amount of available copper ore decreases.: This is a direct consequence of increased mining and usage, affecting the availability of this resource.
• D. Pollution from mining increases.: Increased mining activities lead to greater environmental pollution, affecting ecosystems and air/water quality.

Thus, the selected statements relate directly to the environmental impacts of increased copper usage.