You are given a science question (hard-level) and four answer options (associated with "A", "B", "C", "D"). Your task is to find the correct answer based on scientific facts, knowledge, and reasoning. Do not generate anything else apart from one of the following characters: 'A', 'B, 'C', 'D'. There is only one correct answer for each question.
--------
Question: Surface mining is a type of mining that is done at the surface of Earth. In addition to supplying valuable minerals to industry, surface mining might also  
 (A) discourage landfills. (B) increase Earth's surface area. (C) eliminate groundwater pollution. (D) create recreational ponds and lakes.

Answer: D


Question: A negative effect of the invention and use of paper is the  
 (A) increased use of glass bottles. (B) increased number of trees cut down. (C) decreased pollution in trash dumps. (D) decreased amount of books to read.

Answer: B


Question: Which best illustrates the sequence of steps that should be followed when solving technological problems?  
 (A) Identify the problem, evaluate the solution, explore possible solutions, and select a solution. (B) Identify the problem, explore possible solutions, select a solution, and evaluate the solution. (C) Identify the problem, select a solution, explore possible solutions, and evaluate the solution. (D) Identify the problem, evaluate the solution, select a solution, and explore possible solutions.

Answer:
B