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Environmental Problems of the Earth: - Coggle Diagram
Environmental Problems of the Earth:
Environment:
Physical surroundings
Natural features (soil, atmosphere, vegetation, wildlife)
Human features (housing, transport, industry)
Social features (culture, language, political systems)
Environmental Problems:
Globalization and transformation of local problems into international issues
Acid rain
Air pollution
Global warming
Hazardous waste
Ozone depletion
Smog
Water pollution
Overpopulation
Rainforest destruction
Acid Rain:
Caused by burning fossil fuels
Release of sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOX)
Formation of weak solutions of nitric and sulphuric acids in the atmosphere
Problems Caused by Acid Rain:
Increased acidity levels in rivers, lakes, and seas
Killing of aquatic life
Increased acidity levels in soils
Killing of vegetation
Destruction of forests and erosion of buildings and monuments
Global Warming:
Worldwide warming of the atmosphere
Caused by increased release of carbon dioxide and other gases from burning fossil fuels
Adds to the natural greenhouse effect
Greenhouse Effect:
Natural phenomenon controlling heat balance in the Earth's atmosphere
Traps a small percentage of the sun's radiation
Without the greenhouse effect, average surface temperature would be about -18 degrees Celsius
Problems Caused by Global Warming:
Rising sea levels
Flooding in low-lying areas
Water Pollution:
Necessity of water for life
Pollution can kill fish, birds, and other animals
Makes water unpleasant and unsafe to use
Major pollutants: chemical, biological, and physical materials
Harmful Effects of Petroleum Products:
Accidental spills contaminate water and harm animals
Damage to feathers of birds and fur of animals
Potential contamination with other harmful substances
Harmful Effects of Pesticides and Herbicides:
Chemicals used to kill unwanted animals and plants
Runoff carries them into streams, affecting wildlife
Some biodegradable, others remain dangerous for a long time
Environmental Engineers:
Use biology and chemistry principles to solve environmental problems
Involved in pollution control, recycling, waste disposal, and public health
Conduct hazardous-waste management studies
Design water supply and wastewater treatment systems
Study and minimize effects of environmental issues
Work as consultants and assist with compliance and cleanup