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Environmental Systems Analysis And Modeling Question Paper
Environmental Systems Analysis And Modeling
Course:Bachelor Of Environmental Studies
Institution: Kenyatta University question papers
Exam Year:2009
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY
UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS 2008/2009
SECOND SEMESTER EXAMINATION FOR THE DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND
MANAGEMENT
EPM 332:
ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS ANALYSIS AND MODELING
DATE: WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL 2009 TIME: 11.00 A.M. – 1.00 P.M.
INSTRUCTIONS
• Attempt question 1 and two other questions.
Question 1
The Mau forest is an important natural resource in Kenya. In 2008, the government instituted an official investigation regarding the forest status and the settlements therein. The findings of this study showed that the rate of depletion of this vital resource far outweighs the reforestation efforts. In view of this status:
a)
Briefly outline the importance of the Mau forest. (6 marks)
b)
Discuss a practical method you would propose for the long term monitoring of the forest cover in Mau. Clearly expound on how the data collection and analysis would be executed. (20 marks)
c)
Comment on the accuracy and reliability of your probable findings from the proposed method in (b) above. (4 marks)
Question 2
a)
Outline three conditions that ought to be present to facilitate successful environmental research. (3 marks)
b)
Define the term ‘environmental modeling’ as used in Environmental Planning and management. (2 marks)
d)
Discuss the main steps involved in the modeling process. Comment on the key emphasis at each step. (9 marks)
Question 3
Nairobi city, like most other African capitals is experiencing serious problems as regards the quality of air within the city and its environs. These problems are compounded by the ever increasing population in contrast to the ever diminishing financial resources to invest in clean technologies and lifestyles. In view of this status:
a)
Define the term ‘air pollution’ (2 marks)
b)
Describe the sources of air pollution in Nairobi, highlighting the most serious. (4 marks)
c)
With regard to air pollution, what do you understand by the term ‘emission factors’. (2 marks)
d)
In the event you are hired as a consultant to assist in a project to model air pollution in Nairobi, outline the general principles you would adopt as a guide in executing your assignment. (12 marks)
Question 4
a)
Explain the following terms.
i)
system
ii)
systems analysis
iii)
systems approach
b)
Demonstrate the application of systems theory in any one area of the environment or environmental process modeling of your choice. Use diagrams to illustrate your answer where appropriate. (8 marks)
Question 5
All environmental phenomena or processes modeled or analyzed at any on e time in the environment have spatial location. Environmental planners and managers make decisions based on analysis of data collected in the context of their spatial location.
a)
State 2 reasons why an EPM professional must have a good understanding of the sources of spatial data. (2 marks)
b)
Discuss the sources of spatial data for use in EPM disciplines highlighting the sources, methods of conversion to digital format and the equipment used for each different type. (9 marks)
c)
For the respective sources of data , methods and equipment mentioned in (b), comment on their accuracies and relative costs. (9 marks).
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