Tar Sands

Incorrect. Bitumen is heavier and thicker than conventional oil.

Correct. Bitumen is too thick to flow easily, unlike conventional oil.

Incorrect. Both bitumen and conventional oil are found underground.

Incorrect. While extraction and processing costs are higher, bitumen can be refined into usable oil products.

Incorrect. Bitumen has a lower API gravity.

Incorrect. Bitumen has a lower API gravity.

Correct. Bitumen is very dense and viscous, resulting in an API gravity below 18 degrees.

Incorrect. API gravity is a crucial measure of oil density and viscosity.

Incorrect. The high sand content makes extraction complex and energy-intensive.

Incorrect. Special techniques like steam injection and open-pit mining are required.

Correct. Tar sands extraction requires large amounts of water, leading to concerns about water scarcity and pollution.

Incorrect. Extraction involves extensive land clearing, disrupting ecosystems.

Incorrect. While water pollution is a concern, it is not the main environmental impact.

Correct. Upgrading bitumen requires significant energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Incorrect. While air pollution is a concern, it is not the main environmental impact.

Incorrect. While noise pollution is a concern, it is not the main environmental impact.

Incorrect. This is a negative consequence, not an opportunity.

Correct. Tar sands development can create jobs and boost local economies.

Correct. Tar sands can contribute to energy independence for some countries.

Incorrect. This is not a direct consequence of tar sands development.

This is an open-ended task with no one "right" answer. A successful article should:

• Clearly explain the basics of tar sands: Define the term, mention bitumen, API gravity, and the challenges associated with extraction and processing.
• Present a balanced view of the benefits and drawbacks: Include potential economic benefits (jobs, revenue), energy independence, and increased oil production. Also, mention environmental concerns like habitat loss, greenhouse gas emissions, and water use.
• Incorporate diverse perspectives: Quotes from local residents (concerned about pollution, land use, etc.), environmental groups (highlighting ecological damage), and oil company representatives (emphasizing economic benefits and job creation).
• Offer a thoughtful conclusion: It should be based on the presented arguments and express a personal stance on the future of tar sands development. This could be a call for more sustainable approaches, a focus on mitigating negative impacts, or support for the project with certain conditions.