Final answer:
Children living near mountaintop removal mines have a greater chance of experiencing respiratory problems, birth defects, and behavioral issues, but not improved health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children living in close proximity to mountaintop removal mines have a greater incidence of all the following except c) Improved health. This form of mining is known to have detrimental impacts on the environment and health of nearby residents.
- a) Respiratory problems: Dust and particulates from mines contribute to various respiratory conditions, including lung diseases like coal workers' pneumoconiosis, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma.
- b) Birth defects: Exposure to toxic substances in the mining environment can lead to an increased risk of birth defects and various other health complications.
- d) Behavioral issues: The stress and hardship associated with living near toxic environments, such as mountaintop removal mines, may contribute to behavioral problems.
Mountaintop removal mining does not result in Improved health for children or any individuals in the affected areas; on the contrary, it is associated with adverse health outcomes.