Cold environments Alaska

• What is the main opportunity for economic development in Alaska?

  Oil drilling.
• Where is oil primarily drilled in Alaska?

  In Prudhoe Bay.
• Why can't oil be transported by boat from Prudhoe Bay to the USA?

  Because the sea ice prevents navigation.
• What is the purpose of the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline?

  To transport oil across Alaska to Valdez.
• How is the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline designed to protect wildlife?

  It is built on stilts to allow wildlife to move underneath.
• Why is the oil heated to 49 degrees Celsius in the pipeline?

  To prevent blockages caused by freezing.
• What adaptations are made in the pipeline design to resist earthquakes?

  The pipeline has bends to allow for movement during earthquakes.
• What is one of the main challenges of living in Alaska?

  Extreme cold temperatures.
• How does constant darkness affect economic development in Alaska?

  It hinders development due to lighting and safety issues.
• What wildlife is mentioned as living in Alaska?

  Moose and elk.
• What is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) known for?

  It is a safe breeding area for wildlife.
• Why is it important for the pipeline to be raised off the ground in Alaska?

  To allow wildlife migrations and protect the permafrost.
• What is the economic contribution of fishing to Alaska's GDP?

  It contributes approximately six billion pounds per year.
• What is the significance of the number of visitors who come to see whales in Alaska?

  Two million people visit each year, contributing to the economy.
• What is a major drawback of cruise ship tourism in Alaska?

  Most of the money stays on board and does not benefit the local economy.
• How does mining contribute to Alaska's economy?

  Mining contributes to one fifth of Alaska's GDP.
• What are the main minerals mined in Alaska?

  Copper, silver, and gold.
• What is the temperature range mentioned for extreme cold in Alaska?

  Minus 30 to minus 40 degrees Celsius.
• What happens if the permafrost thaws?

  It can cause structural damage to buildings and infrastructure.
• Why is the area around Prudhoe Bay significant?

  It is rich in oil and has been a focus for drilling.
• What is the role of the pipeline in relation to oil spills?

  The pipeline is designed to prevent blockages that could lead to spills.
• What is the significance of the term "last great wilderness" in relation to Alaska?

  It refers to its natural beauty and wildlife.
• How do the economic opportunities in Alaska relate to its cold environment?

  The cold environment limits development but also provides unique opportunities like oil and fishing.
• What are the main opportunities for economic development in Alaska?

  • Oil drilling in Prudhoe Bay
  • Wildlife tourism, particularly whale watching
  • Fishing, contributing significantly to the economy
  • Mining of minerals like copper, silver, and gold
• What are the main challenges faced in Alaska due to its cold environment?

  • Extreme cold temperatures hindering development
  • Thawing permafrost causing structural issues
  • Constant darkness affecting economic activities
  • Wildlife migration routes impacted by infrastructure
• What management strategies are employed to cope with the challenges in Alaska?

  • Trans-Alaskan Pipeline built on stilts
  • Heating oil in the pipeline to prevent freezing
  • Designing pipeline bends to resist earthquakes
  • Ensuring wildlife migration routes are preserved