Which type of power plant releases toxic metals and radioactive materials into the atmosphere under its normal, daily operating conditions?
Explanation
Answer: C - Coal-burning power plants release toxic metals and radioactive materials into the atmosphere under their normal, daily operating conditions.
Key Takeaway: Like most other ores buried within the Earth’s crust, coal contains small amounts of naturally-radioactive isotopes, like uranium and thorium. When coal is processed, in normal conditions, these isotopes are realeased into the environment, leading to radioactive contamination. Although these compounds are in reality a very small impurity in the coal, enough coal is burned daily throughout the United States to provide a significant negative environmental impact.
