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In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 3
In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate. Limestone is heated in a l... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In this question you will be assessed on using good English, organising information clearly and using specialist terms where appropriate - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain the potential environmental impacts of quarrying
Answer
Quarrying limestone can lead to several environmental impacts:
- Destruction of Natural Beauty: The landscape is altered significantly, leading to loss of aesthetic value in the area.
- Disruption of Ecosystems: Quarries can harm local flora and fauna by destroying habitats, resulting in biodiversity loss.
- Air Pollution: Dust from quarrying processes can lead to respiratory issues in nearby populations as well as wildlife.
Step 2
Explain the potential environmental impacts of drilling
Answer
Drilling for natural gas can also have negative impacts:
- Air Pollution: The release of methane can contribute to air pollution, impacting the quality of the air for nearby communities.
- Water Contamination: Chemicals used in drilling can seep into groundwater, affecting drinking water supplies.
- Noise Pollution: The noise from drilling operations can disturb both human and animal populations.
Step 3
Explain the potential environmental impacts of the thermal decomposition of limestone
Answer
The thermal decomposition of limestone has its own environmental implications:
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions: The process releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change.
- Sulfur Dioxide Production: Some sulfur dioxide may be released, leading to issues such as acid rain, which can damage ecosystems and buildings.
- Energy Consumption: The high temperatures required for decomposition require significant energy, often sourced from fossil fuels, contributing further to environmental degradation.