How is the production of mercury from burning coal an environmental hazard? a. high concentrations of mercury in the air leads to global warming. b. mercury in water systems is transformed through biological processes into a substance that is toxic to animals. c. mercury combines with other coal emissions in the air to produce ozone. d. all of the above select the best answer from the choices provided a b c d

B

Explanation

Mercury in water systems is transformed through biological processes into a substance that is toxic to animals.

The correct answer is B. Mercury in water systems is transformed through biological processes into a substance that is toxic to animals.

Explanation:

When coal is burned, it releases high amounts of mercury in the air and the ground where it is burning. This is an environmental risk since mercury is a toxic chemical compound that can reach water sources such as rivers or streams where it has contact with this non-renewable resource and contaminate it. Besides, mercury affects the species of water fish and their predators, for example, humans, because due to its high toxicity, it produces malformations, cancer, and other diseases; also, it can lead to the death of small organisms. Thus, mercury is an environmental hazard because "Mercury in water systems is transformed through biological processes into a substance that is toxic to animals".