fracking – n. (sometimes called “hydraulic fracking”); a technique in which rock is fractured, or broken, by a highly-pressurized liquid (usually water mixed with sand and other materials)

silica sand – n. one of the most common kinds of sand found in the world; it is used in industrial processing;

extract – v. to remove (something) by pulling it out or cutting it out

pile – n. a group of things that are put one on top of another

asthma – n. a physical condition that makes breathing difficult

pretty – adj. to a great degree or extent; very

toxic – adj. containing harmful or poisonous substances

respiratory – adj. of or relating to breathing

exposure(s) – n. the fact or condition of being affected by something or experiencing something; the condition of being exposed to something

ambient – adj. surrounding on all sides

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