module52REVIEW

567

In this module, we have seen that reduce, reuse, recycle, and compost are appropriate actions to take before sending a solid waste material into the waste stream. It is important to observe the “three Rs” in the order stated here, because each action uses less energy than the next action. Composting is another pathway for diverting material from the waste stream. The diversion of compostable materials from the landfill reduces methane production and produces a desirable end product, decomposed organic matter. In the next module, we will see what happens to material that is not diverted from the solid waste stream.

Module 52 AP® Review Questions

Question 1

1. The correct order of the three Rs is

  1. Reduce, Recycle, Reuse.

  2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

  3. Recycle, Reuse, Reduce.

  4. Recycle, Reduce, Reuse.

  5. Reuse, Reduce, Recycle.

Question 2

2. Which is NOT a form of source reduction?

  1. Printing double-sided instead of single-sided

  2. Purchasing digital versions of music instead of CDs

  3. Replacing plastic mugs with disposable paper cups

  4. Substituting a nontoxic material for something toxic

  5. Designing a smaller box for packaging

Question 3

3. Which material usually uses closed-loop recycling?

  1. Aluminum

  2. Glass

  3. Paper

  4. Cardboard

  5. Plastic

Question 4

4. Organic matter in landfills is a problem primarily because

  1. there is a high risk of toxic leaching.

  2. it contains bacteria that spreads disease.

  3. as it breaks down it can dissolve the containment.

  4. it creates excessive heat.

  5. it produces methane gas.

Question 5

5. For composting to work effectively, the compost

  1. must be kept very wet.

  2. must be mixed.

  3. must be anaerobic.

  4. must be protected from high temperatures.

  5. must contain more nitrogen than carbon.