GCSE Chemistry · AQA 8462 · Topic 4.10
Using resources
Key points
- Humans use the Earth's resources for warmth, shelter, food and transport; sustainable development meets today's needs without harming future generations.
- Potable water is safe to drink. It is made from fresh water by filtering and sterilising, or from sea water by desalination. Waste water needs treatment before release.
- (Higher) Copper can be extracted from low-grade ores by phytomining and bioleaching.
- Life cycle assessments look at the environmental impact of a product from raw materials to disposal. Reuse and recycling save resources and energy.
- (Chemistry only) Corrosion, alloys, ceramics, polymers and composites are chosen for their properties.
- (Chemistry only) The Haber process makes ammonia for NPK fertilisers.
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Everything we use, from drinking water to bricks, metals and fertilisers, comes from the Earth's resources. This topic is about using those resources wisely: making safe water, judging environmental impact, choosing materials, and producing…
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