MS MS in Environmental Science 2

Question 1

Which greenhouse gas has the highest global warming potential (GWP) over a 100-year timeframe per unit mass among common atmospheric pollutants?

Accepted Answer

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆)

Answer

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) has a GWP of approximately 23,500 over 100 years, making it the most potent greenhouse gas by mass among common pollutants.

Question 2

What is the term for organisms that break down dead organic matter into simpler inorganic substances?

Accepted Answer

Decomposers

Answer

Decomposers, including bacteria and fungi, break down dead organisms and waste materials into inorganic nutrients that cycle back through ecosystems.

Question 3

Which method is used to assess the total environmental impact of a product from raw material extraction to disposal?

Accepted Answer

Life cycle assessment (LCA)

Answer

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of a product or process through all stages from cradle to grave.

Question 4

What type of biome is characterized by permafrost, low precipitation, and treeless landscape?

Accepted Answer

Tundra

Answer

Tundra is defined by permanently frozen subsoil (permafrost), extremely cold temperatures, low precipitation, and an absence of trees due to short growing seasons.

Question 5

Which water treatment process uses membranes to remove salts and dissolved solids from seawater?

Accepted Answer

Reverse osmosis

Answer

Reverse osmosis forces water through semi-permeable membranes under pressure, removing dissolved salts, ions, and other contaminants to produce fresh water.

MS - Master of Science Practice Test

MS - Master of Science Practice Test

MS MS in Environmental Science 2