Question

which of these methods of waste management is most likely to release heavy metals and other toxins into the air?

a. compacting and converting to a park

b. burning in an incinerator

c. burial in a sanitary landfill

d. composting in a compost center

Explanation:

• Option A: Compacting and converting to a park doesn't involve processes that release heavy metals or toxins into the air. It's more about land use conversion.
• Option B: Burning waste in an incinerator involves combustion. Many wastes contain heavy metals and toxins, and when burned, these can be released into the air as pollutants (e.g., incineration of electronic waste with heavy metals like lead, mercury can emit them).
• Option C: Burial in a sanitary landfill primarily deals with waste decomposition underground, and the main emissions are usually greenhouse gases like methane, not heavy metals into the air.
• Option D: Composting is a natural decomposition process of organic matter, which doesn't release heavy metals or toxins into the air.

Answer:

B. Burning in an incinerator