Question

Read the two questions.

Question 1: Do heavy metals like lead and arsenic cause damage to human DNA?
Question 2: Should industries releasing heavy metals into land and water ecosystems be penalized?

Use complete sentences to explain whether both questions can be answered by science or not. Be sure to explain why for each question.

Answer 1

Question 1 can be answered by science. Scientists have conducted studies and research on the effects of heavy metals like lead and arsenic on human DNA. They have found that exposure to these metals can cause damage to DNA, leading to health problems and diseases.

Question 2 is a more complex question that cannot be answered solely by science. While science can provide information on the effects of heavy metals on ecosystems and human health, the decision of whether industries should be penalized for releasing heavy metals into the environment is a matter of policy and ethics. It involves weighing the economic benefits of the industry against the potential harm to the environment and human health. This decision requires input from multiple stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, and members of the affected communities, and involves considerations beyond just scientific evidence.

Answer 2

Question 1: Yes, science can answer whether heavy metals like lead and arsenic cause damage to human DNA. This is because there is a large body of scientific research on the effects of heavy metals on human health, including their impact on DNA. Scientists can conduct experiments to study the mechanisms by which heavy metals damage DNA, as well as epidemiological studies to assess the health effects of exposure to heavy metals.

Question 2: This question is more complex, as it involves not just a scientific question, but also a moral and ethical one. Science can help inform the decision of whether industries releasing heavy metals into land and water ecosystems should be penalized by providing information on the environmental and health impacts of such releases. However, whether or not to penalize these industries is ultimately a decision that involves weighing scientific evidence against other considerations, such as economic and political factors. Therefore, while science can provide valuable information to help answer this question, the answer is not solely a matter of science.