Phosphorus: Environmental Impact Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What type of compounds can be classified as organic nutrients?

Minerals

Carbon Dioxide

Water

Vitamins (correct)

Vitamin C can be produced by the human body.

False

What disease is caused by a deficiency in vitamin C?

Scurvy

Goitre is often caused by a deficiency of ______.

iodine Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum daily requirement for macrominerals?

100 mg/day or more Signup and view all the answers

Match the following diseases to their associated nutrient deficiencies:

Scurvy = Vitamin C Goitre = Iodine Rickets = Vitamin D Pellagra = Niacin Signup and view all the answers

Inorganic substances cannot be destroyed by cooking.

True Signup and view all the answers

Our body utilizes nutrients from food for ______, growth, and cell repair.

energy Signup and view all the answers

What issue was phosphorus identified as a cause of over 40 years ago?

Excessive growth of algae and aquatic plants Signup and view all the answers

Phosphorus is harmful to aquatic ecosystems only when present in large amounts.

True Signup and view all the answers

What legislation regulates phosphorus discharges in Alberta?

Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act Signup and view all the answers

Phosphorus is a naturally occurring element that is abundant in _____ soils.

Alberta Signup and view all the answers

Match the following phosphorus pollution reduction tips with their descriptions:

Use appropriate fertilizers = Ensure proper application according to product instructions Pick up pet waste = Properly dispose of waste to prevent runoff Protect riverbanks = Minimize erosion by covering soil with vegetation Compost kitchen scraps = Reduce waste and prevent harmful runoff from garbage disposal Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following practices can help reduce phosphorus pollution from households?

Testing soil before fertilizing Signup and view all the answers

Algae blooms are beneficial for aquatic life as they provide essential nutrients.

False Signup and view all the answers

What can municipal and industrial strategies do to manage phosphorus discharge?

Significantly reduce the amount of phosphorus in wastewater Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Phosphorus: Environmental Impact

Excessive phosphorus in water bodies leads to uncontrolled algae growth, impacting aquatic ecosystems.
Algae blooms can deplete dissolved oxygen levels, endangering fish and aquatic animals.
Some algae produce toxins, posing health risks to wildlife and humans.
Manufacturers have reduced phosphorus content in detergents due to environmental concerns.

Phosphorus Regulation in Alberta

Alberta's Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act regulates phosphorus discharge from municipalities and industries.
Pollution prevention strategies and advanced technologies have enabled reductions in phosphorus in wastewater.
Some municipalities have adopted phosphorus reduction programs, successfully lowering discharge into water bodies.
Managing phosphorus runoff from agricultural and urban areas is essential; fertilizer use requires careful oversight.

Tips to Reduce Phosphorus Pollution at Home

Use fertilizers appropriately and test soils before application to avoid over-fertilization.
Properly dispose of pet waste to minimize nutrient runoff.
Protect riverbanks by maintaining vegetation to reduce soil erosion.
Compost phosphorus-rich kitchen scraps instead of using garbage disposals to prevent wastewater contamination.

Body Chemistry and Nutrients

The human body consists of chemicals derived from food, categorized as organic and inorganic nutrients.
Organic Compounds: Include carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and vitamins; essential for health and mostly derived from plants.
Vitamin C is critical for connective tissue formation; deficiency can lead to scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums and bruising.
Inorganic Compounds: Minerals necessary for bodily functions; not destroyed by cooking.
Microminerals are essential in minute quantities, essential for enzyme functions and overall health.

Health Implications of Nutrient Deficiencies

Iodine deficiency can cause goiter, swelling of the thyroid, prevalent in regions with low seafood consumption.
Nutritional deficiencies can yield severe health consequences, impacting growth, energy, and repair of body tissues.
Soil contains essential nutrients but is not a viable food source for humans; direct consumption would be ineffective.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the dual role of phosphorus in our environment. This quiz explores its historical significance, particularly in relation to water pollution and algal blooms. Understand how phosphorus can both benefit and harm aquatic ecosystems.