Environmental
In New Mexico, abandoned uranium tailings piles are hazardous because they:
AContain harmless mineral residue
BEmit radon gas and contain radioactive materials that can contaminate soil, water, and air✓ Correct
CCause soil liquefaction in earthquakes
DAttract invasive plant species
Explanation
Uranium mill tailings contain radioactive materials and emit radon gas. They were often left uncontained near communities, particularly in northwestern New Mexico, creating ongoing health and environmental risks.
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Key Terms to Know
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
A mortgage with an interest rate that changes periodically based on a financial index, usually after an initial fixed-rate period.
ZoningLocal government regulations that control land use by dividing areas into zones specifying permitted uses, building sizes, and densities.
VarianceOfficial permission to use land in a way that does not conform to the applicable zoning ordinance, granted by a zoning board when strict enforcement would cause undue hardship.
Eminent DomainThe power of government to take private property for public use, with the requirement to pay the owner just compensation.
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