Endocrine Disruptors (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Flashcards
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Define endocrine disruptor.
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Cards in this collection (14)
Define endocrine disruptor.
An endocrine disruptor is a chemical that interferes with the body's hormones.
What does the endocrine system do?
The endocrine system releases hormones from ductless glands in the body.
True or False?
Endocrine disruptors can only enter the body through diet.
False.
Sources of endocrine disruptors include air, diet, skin, and water, as well as sewage effluents and plastic water storage materials.
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors used as liquid in cosmetics and food packaging.
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors used as liquid plasticizers in cosmetics and food packaging.
Which common endocrine disruptor is a herbicide used to control weeds?
Atrazine is a herbicide used to control weeds that acts as an endocrine disruptor.
Which endocrine disruptor is used in water bottles, food packaging, and toys?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in water bottles, food packaging, and toys.
True or False?
Endocrine disruptors break down quickly, so they cause only short-term harm.
False.
Some endocrine disruptors take a long time to break down, so they cause further damage as more species come into contact with them.
Why is it hard to identify the origins of disorders caused by endocrine disruptors?
It is hard because organisms are exposed to multiple endocrine disruptors at once.
What is a common source of endocrine disruptors affecting wildlife?
A common source is human medications excreted into sewage.
What are some effects of endocrine disruptors on wildlife?
Effects include bird egg thinning, imposex in mollusks, feminization of freshwater fish exposed to treated sewage outflow, and changes in alligator and turtle reproduction.
Which less well-known effect of endocrine disruptors has been seen in seals?
Endocrine disruptors have caused compromised immune system function in seals.
What are some effects of endocrine disruptors on human health?
Effects on humans include reduced sperm production, hormone-related cancers, and increased male genetic defects.
True or False?
Scientists agree that endocrine disruptors affect human brain development.
False.
Endocrine disruptors may affect sexuality and brain development, but this is disputed among scientists.
Even doses of endocrine-disrupting substances can be dangerous in the long term.
Even small doses of endocrine-disrupting substances can be dangerous in the long term.
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