The majority of atmospheric mercury is produced by which source?

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Prepare for the AP Environmental Science Exam. Study with quizzes and multiple choice questions covering atmospheric pollution. Each question offers helpful hints and detailed explanations to boost your knowledge and confidence. Tackle the exam with assuredness!

Multiple Choice

The majority of atmospheric mercury is produced by which source?

Explanation:
The key idea is that mercury enters the atmosphere mainly through burning coal. Coal contains trace amounts of mercury, and when it is burned in power plants, that mercury is released as vapor and various reactive forms. Because coal-fired power plants exist in large numbers and burn vast quantities of fuel, their combined emissions constitute the largest share of atmospheric mercury. The mercury from these emissions can travel long distances and still affect ecosystems far away. While natural sources like geological releases and volcanic activity contribute mercury as well, their total contribution is smaller than that from coal combustion. So the major source of atmospheric mercury is coal burning power plants.

The key idea is that mercury enters the atmosphere mainly through burning coal. Coal contains trace amounts of mercury, and when it is burned in power plants, that mercury is released as vapor and various reactive forms. Because coal-fired power plants exist in large numbers and burn vast quantities of fuel, their combined emissions constitute the largest share of atmospheric mercury. The mercury from these emissions can travel long distances and still affect ecosystems far away. While natural sources like geological releases and volcanic activity contribute mercury as well, their total contribution is smaller than that from coal combustion. So the major source of atmospheric mercury is coal burning power plants.

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