Chapters 1-4
Who caused the imaginary town to be ruined?
The people did it to themselves.
True or False: Insecticides have a long persistence in soil.
True.
What primary effect of DDT does Rachel Carson highlight in Chapter 8?
a. Increased agricultural yields
b. Widespread death of bird populations
c. Improvement in human health outcomes
d. Fast growth of invasive plant species
Answer: b. Widespread death of bird populations
These man-made chemicals, introduced in the mid-20th century, were found to contaminate human food and water supplies.
Pesticides.
What cancer is aminotriazole suspected to cause?
Thyroid Cancer.
The history of life on earth has been a history of interaction between living things and their ______. Habits of the earth's vegetation and its animal life have been molded by the ________.
Surroundings, Environment
How can weeds be a positive externality for us?
They have a mutually beneficial relationship with our soil and it keep it intact, allowing us to continue using it without erosion or mineral depletion.
What anecdote does Carson use to show the impact of DDT on bird populations?
a. A report of dead robins following the spraying of elm trees
b. A personal story about her childhood garden involves her dislike of DDT.
c. A research study about penguins in Antarctica
d. The extinction of pigeons and other birds.
Answer: a. A report of dead robins following the spraying of elm trees
Carson argues that exposure to pesticides can lead to these serious diseases, name of serious disease she references?
Cancer, Neurological Diseases, or Cardiovascular Diseases.
True or False: The Vedalia lady beetle devoured many apple orchards in California.
False.
DDT is most toxic in what form?
Liquid.
What are some possible unintended consequences of spraying a whole town/city with an insecticide in an attempt to kill a specific organism? Name 2.
Dead birds/squirrels/rabbits/fish, Dogs/cats got sick, or Human throat and chest irritations
How does Carson describe the effect of pesticides on aquatic ecosystems in Chapter 9?
a. They create a nutrient-rich environment for fish.
b. They improve the clarity of freshwater systems.
c. They help remove algae.
d. They poison rivers and harm all levels of aquatic life.
Answer: d. They poison rivers and harm all levels of aquatic life.
Carson states that scientific studies are often ignored by this group, who prioritize profits over safety.
Chemical companies.
What was the chemical that was produced in 1948 after flies became resistant to DDT?
Chlordane.
DDT and organic phosphorus insecticides have what in common?
Built on a basis of carbon atoms.
Are insecticides selective poisons?
No.
What is Rachel Carson's main concern about aerial spraying of pesticides?
a. It does not target pests
b. The danger it poses to aviation safety
c. Its widespread, non-selective harm to the environment
d. The economic burden on farmers
Answer: c. Its widespread, non-selective harm to the environment
This effect, where small doses of chemicals accumulate to dangerous levels over time in living organisms, is called?
Bioaccumulation.
The genus Bacillus and Bacillus thuringiensis are used for what type of insect control?
Microbial Control or Bacteria Control.
Most of the earth's water is not usable for agriculture, industry, or human consumption because of what?
Heavy load of sea salt.
What are 2 of the main agents of decay that help to reduce plant and animal residue into minerals?
Algae, Bacteria, or Fungi
What argument does Carson offer about government programs that involve aerial pesticide spraying?
a. They prioritize cost savings over human health.
b. They lack sufficient public oversight and transparency.
c. They focus too heavily on urban areas.
d. They are excessively regulated and underfunded.
Answer: b. They lack sufficient public oversight and transparency.
Carson describes this group of people as more vulnerable to chemical exposure because of their developing systems.
Children.
What is the second group that chemicals of sterilants can fall into, which affects cell mutation, cell destruction, and damage to chromosomes?
Alkylating Agents.