Learn Unit V: Natural Resources with Free Lessons & Tips

Hazards of nuclear waste include:

1. Radioactive Contamination: Nuclear waste contains radioactive isotopes that emit harmful ionizing radiation, posing health risks to living organisms and the environment.
2. Long-term Storage: Nuclear waste remains hazardous for thousands of years and requires secure long-term storage facilities to prevent accidental exposure and contamination.
3. Nuclear Proliferation: Improper handling and disposal of nuclear waste can increase the risk of nuclear proliferation and the potential for nuclear accidents or terrorist attacks.

• Bad ozone refers to ozone molecules present in the lower atmosphere, also known as ground-level ozone. It is considered "bad" because it is a harmful air pollutant that can cause respiratory problems and damage to vegetation and ecosystems.
• Natural ecosystems are those that occur and develop without human intervention, such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Artificial ecosystems, also known as human-made or anthropogenic ecosystems, are deliberately created or modified by humans for specific purposes, such as agricultural fields, urban parks, and gardens.

• Plastic bags are non-biodegradable because they are made from synthetic polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which are resistant to microbial degradation. This means that plastic bags persist in the environment for a long time, contributing to pollution and environmental damage.