write 300–500 words. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas.

Chemicals of Concern in the Environment

As scientists and engineers work to produce products that make people’s lives easier and safer, there is the possibility that these new products could have negative consequences on individuals and the environment. Discuss its role in improving lives as well as the potential unintended consequences that it may have.

• Regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
  • Cadmium: This is an element that is known as a heavy metal. It is used in batteries, paints, and plastics.

Discuss the following for this assignment:

• What role does the chemical you selected play in the modern world?
• What are some possible detrimental health effects that are associated with this chemical?
• Explain the position of the FDA or EPA regarding your selected chemical. What is the position of your state government regarding your selected chemical?
• Do you feel that your chemical should be more tightly regulated in the United States? Why or why not?
• Would label requirements be enough? Explain why or why not

Read the following passage:

The scientific method is a cyclical and self-correcting process that involves several steps. Observations and collecting qualitative and quantitative evidence are important to make predictions and to develop a theory.

Scientific breakthroughs do not happen overnight. Sometimes, the missing piece of the scientific puzzle takes years to discover. In 1915, Alfred Wegener proposed the theory of continental drift to explain the past and present location of the continents; however, his ideas were met with resistance because he could not provide evidence that would support his hypothesis. Later oceanographers, geologists, and scientists collected more information to verify and explain the theory. In the 1960s, the mechanism and processes were explained by plate tectonic theory. With advancements in science and technology, scientists are still collecting more information.

Answer each of the following questions in your own words and in 3–5 sentences:

1. What is continental drift?

2. What was Alfred Wegener’s hypothesis for continental drift, and why was his idea not accepted?

3. Explain the evidence collected in the last part of the 20th century that supports Wegener’s continental drift theory.

4. What is plate tectonic theory? Explain the types of plate boundaries, and explain 1 example for each type of plate boundary.

5. Provide a brief summary of how the scientific method is applied to develop the theory.