Question 1: Explain how the production of electronic devices can contribute to environmental degradation. Mention at least two environmental issues involved.

Answer: The production of electronic devices can lead to environmental degradation through the extraction of raw materials like minerals and metals, which can cause habitat destruction and pollution. Additionally, manufacturing processes often produce greenhouse gases and toxic waste that harm ecosystems.

Question 2: Describe one way in which data centres impact the environment and suggest a method to reduce this impact.

Answer: Data centres consume large amounts of electricity, leading to high carbon emissions. To reduce this impact, data centres can use renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power and improve energy efficiency with better cooling systems.

Question 3: Complete the following truth table for an AND gate with inputs A and B:

Answer: | A | B | Output | |---|---|---------| | 0 | 0 | 0 | | 0 | 1 | 0 | | 1 | 0 | 0 | | 1 | 1 | 1 |

Question 4: Draw a logic circuit for an OR gate using basic logic gate symbols. Label each gate clearly.

Answer: The drawing should show a symbol for an OR gate with two inputs entering it and one output leaving. The OR gate is a curved shape with two input lines on the left and one output line on the right.

Question 5: Sketch a diagram illustrating how a smart thermostat can reduce energy consumption in a household. Label the main components involved.

Answer: The sketch should include a thermostat device connected to a heating system, with sensors monitoring room temperature, and a connection to a user interface. The diagram should show the flow of data and control signals indicating temperature regulation.

Question 6: Discuss one ethical issue related to the disposal of electronic waste and how it affects the environment.

Answer: Electronic waste often contains hazardous materials like lead and mercury, which can leach into soil and water if not disposed of properly. This pollution harms ecosystems and human health, raising ethical concerns over responsible disposal and recycling.

Question 7: Complete the truth table for a NAND gate with inputs A and B:

Answer: | A | B | Output | |---|---|---------| | 0 | 0 | 1 | | 0 | 1 | 1 | | 1 | 0 | 1 | | 1 | 1 | 0 |

Question 8: Draw a flowchart diagram showing the steps a company might take to ensure environmentally friendly e-waste disposal.

Answer: The flowchart should include steps such as 'Collect e-waste', 'Sort hazardous and non-hazardous items', 'Recycle or dispose of hazardous waste safely', and 'Send non-hazardous waste to recycling facilities'. The flow should be logical and clearly labeled.

Question 9: Explain why using renewable energy sources for powering data centres is considered an ethical decision.

Answer: Using renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions and decreases reliance on fossil fuels, which helps combat climate change. Ethically, it demonstrates environmental responsibility and a commitment to sustainability for future generations.

Question 10: Identify and briefly discuss one environmental benefit of developing energy-efficient hardware for computers.

Answer: Energy-efficient hardware consumes less power, which reduces electricity demand and carbon emissions, helping to lessen the environmental impact of technology use.