CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO MOLD
Answer Key
Question 1: Answer: ”A” TRUE
Mold spores are ubiquitous; they are found both indoors and outdoors. Mold spores cannot be eliminated from indoor environments. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.1
Question 2: Answer: “C” Moisture and water
To grow indoors, mold needs moisture and food. Moisture is the most important factor influencing mold growth indoors. Controlling indoor moisture helps limit mold growth. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.2
Question 3: Answer: “A” TRUE
In most cases, temperature is not an issue; some molds grow in warm areas, while others prefer cool locations such as
bread stored in a refrigerator. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.2
Question 4: Answer: “A” TRUE
Mold does not have to be alive to cause an allergic reaction. Dead or alive, mold can cause allergic reactions in some
people. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.3
Question 5: Answer: “B” FALSE
The amount and types of mycotoxins produced by a particular mold depends on many environmental and genetic factors. No one can tell whether a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking. Some mycotoxins are known to affect people, but for many mycotoxins little health information is available. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.4
Question 6: Answer: “B” FALSE
Molds come in many colors including white. "Black mold" is not a species or specific kind of mold, and neither is "toxic mold." www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.5
Question 7: Answer: “A” TRUE
Because mVOCs often have strong or unpleasant odors, they can be the source of the "moldy odor" or musty smell frequently associated with mold growth. A moldy odor suggests that mold is growing in the building and should be investigated. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.6
Question 8: Answer: “A” TRUE
The use of a biocide or a chemical that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup. If disinfectants or biocides are used, always ventilate the area and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Never mix chlorine bleach with other cleaning solutions or with detergents that contain ammonia because toxic fumes could be produced. www.epa.gov/mold/moldcourse/chapter1.html#1.7
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