AP Environmental Science 8.14: Pollution and Health

Approximately 350 coal-fired power plants in the United States are older than the 30 -year anticipated life-span for a coal generator. One problem with these aging power plants is that many lack the necessary modern air pollution controls. Additionally, there are concerns about rising fuel costs, so many utility companies are planning to retire coal-fired plants and build new natural-gas power plants.

Particulate matter is another common pollutant in emissions from vehicles, coal-fired power plants, and various other sources. One size of particulates,$\mathrm{PM}_{2.5}$, presents a particular risk to human health.

Research has shown that hospital admissions for cardiovascular problems increase 1\% with every 10\% increase in $\mathrm{PM}_{2.5}$ concentration. A city experienced a 23% increase in $\mathrm{PM}_{2.5}$ concentration and had 7,390 hospital admissions for cardiovascular issues over a one-year period. Calculate the anticipated increase in the number of hospital admissions for cardiovascular issues during the next year if the $\mathrm{PM}_{2.5}$ concentration continues to rise at an identical rate. Show your work.

Begin your response to this question at the top of a new page in the separate Free Response booklet and fill in the appropriate circle at the top of each page to indicate the question number.