Question

Fracking uses highly pressurized fluids, such as water mixed with sand and chemicals, to drive open cracks that exist in underground rock. Which statement best describes a negative environmental outcome of this process for ecosystems?

A) Wastewater contaminates the natural gas with oil and sludge.

B) Water vapor is released into the air, which is considered a greenhouse gas.

C) Heavy metals are released into the air, poisoning the local residents' water.

D) Billions of gallons of water are pulled from surrounding areas and contaminated.

Answer 1

d. Fracking can have negative environmental outcomes for ecosystems including water contamination, hazardous chemical release, and the risk of earthquakes.

Step-by-step explanation:

d. Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, can have negative environmental outcomes for ecosystems. One such outcome is the contamination of water. Fracking requires large amounts of water, which becomes contaminated with chemicals used in the process. This contaminated water can pollute groundwater near the extraction site, harming local ecosystems.

Another negative outcome is the release of potentially hazardous chemicals into the environment. Fracking fluid contains chemicals that are potentially carcinogenic and can pollute groundwater resources.

Additionally, fracking can cause earthquakes by destabilizing the seismic stability of an area. This poses a risk to local ecosystems and communities.