Question

Why was the Alaskan pipeline built above ground and insulated?

A) To prevent earthquakes
B) To protect it from extreme cold temperatures
C) To reduce environmental impact
D) To facilitate maintenance and inspections

Answer 1

The Alaskan pipeline was constructed above ground to minimize environmental disruption and insulated to safeguard against extreme cold, facilitating wildlife migration and efficient oil flow.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Alaskan pipeline was built above ground and insulated primarily C) To reduce environmental impact. Building the pipeline above ground allowed caribou and other wildlife to migrate freely underneath it, avoiding disruptions to their natural habitat. The insulation was added to maintain the oil at a warm enough temperature to flow efficiently, despite the extreme cold temperatures of the Alaskan environment. Furthermore, elevating the pipeline facilitates maintenance and inspections, ensuring safety and efficiency in its operations.

Suggested policies to encourage drilling for natural gas and building a new pipeline in Alaska include tax incentives, streamlined permitting processes, and grants or subsidies that make exploration financially more appealing. These policies can help balance economic development with environmental conservation.