Question

1. how does mining impact air quality? (select 3 correct answers.) (3 points)

□ explosions to loosen rock send dust and debris into the air.
□ excavation machinery emits greenhouse gases.
□ leftover materials are placed in tailing ponds.
□ vegetation is cleared, leaving dirt exposed.

Explanation:

1. For "Explosions to loosen rock send dust and debris into the air": Mining explosions disturb rock, releasing dust/debris into the air, reducing air quality.
2. For "Excavation machinery emits greenhouse gases": Mining equipment (like diesel - powered machines) burns fuel, emitting gases like CO₂ (a greenhouse gas) that impact air quality.
3. For "Vegetation is cleared, leaving dirt exposed": Removing vegetation exposes soil; wind can then blow this dirt (dust) into the air, affecting air quality.
4. For "Leftover materials are placed in tailing ponds": This affects water quality (or soil around the pond) rather than directly impacting air quality, so it's incorrect.

Answer:

A. Explosions to loosen rock send dust and debris into the air.
B. Excavation machinery emits greenhouse gases.
D. Vegetation is cleared, leaving dirt exposed.