What is a landfill?
C
A site for disposal of waste by burial
D
An incineration facility
Analysis & Theory
A landfill is a designated site where waste is buried under the ground.
Which of the following is a major problem associated with landfills?
B
Leachate and methane gas production
Analysis & Theory
Landfills produce leachate (liquid runoff) and methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
What is leachate in landfill terminology?
B
Liquid that drains from decomposing waste
Analysis & Theory
Leachate is the contaminated liquid produced from the breakdown of waste in landfills.
Why is a liner used at the bottom of modern landfills?
B
To collect recyclable materials
C
To prevent leachate from entering groundwater
Analysis & Theory
Liners act as barriers to stop leachate from contaminating soil and water.
What gas is commonly captured from landfills for energy production?
Analysis & Theory
Methane, produced during anaerobic decomposition of organic waste, is collected for energy use.
Which type of landfill is specially designed for hazardous waste?
Analysis & Theory
Secure landfills are engineered with multiple protections to safely contain hazardous waste.
Which of the following practices is **not** encouraged in modern landfill design?
Analysis & Theory
Open burning is hazardous and strictly prohibited in landfill operations.
What is the main purpose of covering waste daily in landfills?
B
Odor reduction and pest control
Analysis & Theory
Daily cover reduces odor, pest attraction, and fire hazards.
Which layer is usually applied on top of a landfill when it's closed?
B
Final cap and vegetation layer
Analysis & Theory
A final cover includes soil and vegetation to prevent erosion and seal off the landfill.
What is a major drawback of landfilling compared to recycling?
C
Wastes valuable materials
Analysis & Theory
Landfilling disposes of materials that could otherwise be reused or recycled.