Question

what property of plastics causes it to be an issues with ocean pollution?

the mass of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water.
the density of most plastics in the ocean is less than that of water.
the volume of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water.
the weight of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water.

Explanation:

Analyze the environmental issue

The question asks about a physical property of plastics that contributes to ocean pollution. We are dealing with Water Pollution, specifically plastic accumulation in marine environments.

Evaluate the physical properties

Plastics that float on the surface of the ocean are highly visible and easily transported by surface currents and winds, leading to widespread accumulation (such as garbage patches) and ingestion by marine life. Floating occurs because the density of these plastics is less than the density of seawater.

Assess the given options

• Option 1: "The mass of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water." This is incorrect; the total mass of ocean water is vastly greater than the mass of plastics.
• Option 2: "The density of most plastics in the ocean is less than that of water." This is correct. Low density allows plastics to float on the surface, making them persistent surface pollutants.
• Option 3: "The volume of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water." This is incorrect; the volume of ocean water is far greater.
• Option 4: "The weight of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water." This is incorrect for the same reason as mass.

Answer:

• (A) The mass of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water.
• (B) The density of most plastics in the ocean is less than that of water. (Correct answer)
• (C) The volume of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water.
• (D) The weight of most plastics in the ocean is more than that of ocean water.