AP®︎ Environmental Science: Topic 8.9 Practice Test
Prepare for your quiz, test, or the AP exam with focused practice questions on Topic 8.9 of AP Environmental Science – Solid Waste Disposal.
Questions List
Topic 8.9
Question 1 Easy
This question tests the following: STB-3.K.2
What is the main method of waste disposal historically used worldwide?
What You’re Being Tested On:
Explore the learning objectives taken directly from the College Board’s AP® Environmental Science Curriculum. Ensure you’re prepared for the exact topics covered on the AP® exam, in-class tests, and quizzes, and gain confidence in your mastery of the material.
Topic 8.9: Solid Waste Disposal
Learning Objective: STB-3.K
Describe solid waste disposal methods.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.K.1
Solid waste is any discarded material that is not a liquid or gas. It is generated in domestic, industrial, business, and agricultural sectors.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.K.2
Solid waste is most often disposed of in landfills. Landfills can contaminate groundwater and release harmful gases.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.K.3
Electronic waste, or e-waste, is composed of discarded electronic devices including televisions, cell phones, and computers.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.K.4
A sanitary municipal landfill consists of a bottom liner (plastic or clay), a storm water collection system, a leachate collection system, a cap, and a methane collection system.
Learning Objective: STB-3.L
Describe the effects of solid waste disposal methods.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.L.1
Factors in landfill decomposition include the composition of the trash and conditions needed for microbial decomposition of the waste.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.L.2
Solid waste can also be disposed of through incineration, where waste is burned at high temperatures. This method significantly reduces the volume of solid waste but releases air pollutants.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.L.3
Some items are not accepted in sanitary landfills and may be disposed of illegally, leading to environmental problems. One example is used rubber tires, which when left in piles can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes that can spread disease.
Essential Knowledge: STB-3.L.4
Some countries dispose of their waste by dumping it in the ocean. This practice, along with other sources of plastic, has led to large floating islands of trash in the oceans. Additionally, wildlife can become entangled in the waste, as well as ingest it.
