SCIENCE SUMMATIVE

Unit title: Chemical reactions

Key concept: Change

Related concept: Consequences, Interactions

Global context: Scientific and technical

innovations

Statement of inquiry: A change in matter is a

consequence of effective interactions between
particles through inquiry into impact of
technological advances on society.

ATL’s: Information literacy skills

Critical thinking skills
Creative thinking skills
Transfer skills
Article on effects of chemical waste from industries,
their consequences and impacts on society

Chemical waste is a waste that is made from harmful

chemicals (mostly produced by large factories). ... This
type of hazardous waste must be categorized as to its
identity, constituents, and hazards so that it may be
safely handled and managed. Chemical waste is a
broad term and encompasses many types of materials.
Effect of chemical waste on environment:

Buried chemicals can produce vapours which can

escape to the atmosphere, while liquids, if
inadequately contained, can seep into the earth, enter
GROUNDWATER and affect drinking water supplies far
from the dumpsite.
Toxic waste can harm people, animals, and plants,
whether it ends up in the ground, in streams, or even
in the air. Some toxins, such as mercury and lead,
persist in the environment for many years and
accumulate over time. Humans or wildlife often absorb
these toxic substances when they eat fish or other
prey.
When hazardous waste is released into the
environment, it can spread and contaminate all
environmental media (i.e. air, water, and land) and
pose a threat to human health and the environment.
How can we properly Reduce, reuse, recycle, or
properly dispose of the wastes?

1. Reduce the amount of hazardous products you

buy. For example, if you only need a quart of
paint for a job, don’t buy a gallon.
2. Use less hazardous products if you can. For
example, clean windows with vinegar and water
instead of toxic window cleaners.
3. Reuse products if it’s safe to do so. For example,
paint thinner that has been used to clean paint
brushes can be strained and reused.
4. Recycle whenever possible. For example, some
service stations allow you to drop off used
motor oil, car batteries, or tires for recycling.
5. Always properly dispose of hazardous waste. For
example, let liquid waste evaporate before
placing the container in the trash.