It's Time to Do Something About the Nurdle Problem

question 165

Multiple Choice

It's time to do something about the nurdle problem. And just what is a nurdle, you might ask? Nurdles, also known as "mermaid tears," are small plastic pellets that are widely used to make all types of plastic products, from bottles to television sets. Sadly, mismanagement of these little pellets during transport and processing leads to billions being unintentionally released into rivers and oceans. With each passing year, they are becoming more and more prevalent in aquatic environments. Their small size, round shape, and variety of colors make them attractive food-easily mistaken for fish eggs and small prey. In addition, nurdles are often colonized by microbes that are dangerous to humans and sea life. A recent study of nurdles in Scotland revealed that the small plastic bits were covered with E coli, the bacterium responsible for food poisoning in mammals. Fortunately, some organizations are raising awareness of the problem. The Great Global Nurdle Hunt is a charity that encourages people to become citizen scientists and gather data on how common these pieces are. From there, we can figure out who's polluting and begin the cleanup. So let's all get out there and do some nurdle hunting-just be sure to wear your gloves!
Which of the following best describes an argument made in the passage?

• A)The presence of a pathogen on some nurdles poses a health risk.
• B)Humans often confuse nurdles for aquatic creatures.
• C)Nurdles cost a great deal to clean up once they're introduced into the environment.
• D)Nurdles have already harmed a number of humans.

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Definitions:

Civil Service Reform Act

Legislation intended to improve and regulate the civil service of the United States by promoting merit-based appointment and ensuring job security for civil servants.

Office of Personnel Management (OPM)

A U.S. federal agency that manages the civil service of the federal government, overseeing human resources policy, personnel management, and health insurance policies for federal employees.

Political Appointees

Individuals who are appointed to certain government positions as a result of their political affiliation or support, rather than through a merit-based system.

Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC)

A former independent agency of the U.S. government, established to regulate the railroad industry and later expanded to oversee other modes of transportation.