An epidemic occurs when an infectious disease spreads rapidly to many people. For example, in 2003, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic took the lives of nearly 800 people worldwide. disease outbreak happens when a disease occurs in greater numbers than expected in a community or region or during a season. An outbreak may occur in one community or even extend to several countries. It can last from days to years. Sometimes a single case of a contagious disease is considered an outbreak.
Quick Answer. Bitumen is primarily used to pave roads. It is a brown or black mixture of hydrocarbons, which is derived from petroleum. The consistency of bitumen varies from viscous to solid, and in its solid form, it is commonly known as asphalt. Continue Reading.
Photo: Pembina Institute. Tar sands (also known as oil sands) are a mixture of mostly sand, clay, water, and a thick, molasses-like substance called bitumen. Bitumen is made of hydrocarbonsâthe same molecules in liquid oilâand is used to produce gasoline and other petroleum products.