Final answer:
The oil sands operation in Alberta, Canada impacts the hydrosphere through water contamination, the atmosphere via air pollution and climate change, the lithosphere with soil erosion and land alteration, and the biosphere through habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is asking to identify at least one impact of the oil sands operation in Alberta, Canada, on each of the spheres of environment: hydrosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. Starting with the hydrosphere, the water quality and quantity can be affected due to potential contamination from pollutants and toxins released during the extraction process. In the case of the atmosphere, emissions from extracting and refining processes, including methane and volatile organic hydrocarbons, contribute to air pollution and climate change. The lithosphere is impacted by strip mining and the alteration of the landscape, which can lead to soil erosion and loss of fertile land. For the biosphere, habitat destruction and spills can lead to a decline in biodiversity and affect wildlife health.