Environmental Chemistry Overview

What effect does an increase in temperature have on biological activity in aquatic environments?

How does temperature affect the solubility of gases in water?

What issue can arise from the presence of algae mats in water bodies?

Which type of fish requires cooler temperatures and higher levels of dissolved oxygen?

What are important chemical parameters related to the solvent capabilities of water?

Environmental Chemistry

Lower temperatures slow biological activity, but essential nutrients are still required to favor faster biological activity. A 10°C increase approximately doubles biological activity.
Increased metabolic rates in some organisms (ex: reproduction and growth), while others decline and potentially die off.
Algal growth can be accelerated in warm water, forming dense mats that can impact water quality
Natural secretions from algae, and their decomposition cause issues such as unpleasant taste and smells.
Higher-order organisms (like fish) are significantly impacted by temperature and dissolved oxygen levels. These levels depend on temperature.
Fish generally prefer cooler temperatures and higher dissolved oxygen levels.
Temperature changes affect chemical reaction rates and solubility. Solid dissolution increases with temperature; gas solubility decreases.
Increased temperature lowers dissolved oxygen; inhibiting the biological oxidation of organics in streams.
Water's solvent properties greatly affect chemical parameters including total dissolved solids and alkalinity.

This quiz focuses on the effects of temperature on biological activity in aquatic systems, including nutrient requirements and metabolic rates of various organisms. It explores how increased temperatures impact algal growth, water quality, and the physiology of higher-order organisms like fish. Test your understanding of these crucial environmental chemistry concepts.