26 Questions
What distinguishes a point source of pollution from a nonpoint source of pollution?
Point sources are single, identifiable sources like smokestacks, while nonpoint sources are diffused and challenging to identify.
How do oil spills in marine waters impact organisms?
Causing organisms to die from the hydrocarbons in oil.
What is a characteristic of oceanic dead zones?
They have low oxygen levels due to increased nutrient pollution.
What factors contribute to the damage suffered by coral reefs?
Increasing ocean temperature, sediment runoff, and destructive fishing practices.
What impacts can heavy metals from industrial activities have on groundwater?
Negatively impacting the drinking water supply.
What is the purpose of an oxygen sag curve?
To monitor dissolved oxygen levels relative to pollution sources like excess nutrients.
How can litter impact aquatic ecosystems?
Create intestinal blockage and choking hazards for wildlife
What is the primary effect of eutrophication on aquatic environments?
Algal bloom formation
How do endocrine disruptors affect animals?
Cause birth defects and developmental disorders
What is a common feature of oligotrophic waterways compared to eutrophic waterways?
High levels of dissolved oxygen
What is the impact of thermal pollution on aquatic ecosystems?
Negatively affects organisms due to heat release
How do persistent organic pollutants (POPs) travel through the environment?
Long distances via wind and water
What occurs in an ecosystem when a persistent substance is biomagnified in a food chain?
Developmental deformities in top carnivores
What is the primary disposal method for solid waste?
Disposal in landfills
What is the main impact of anthropogenic causes of eutrophication on water bodies?
Algal bloom formation
How do wetlands contribute to the environment?
Provide flood protection and habitat
What are the components of a sanitary municipal landfill?
Bottom liner, storm water collection system, cap, methane collection system
Why is incineration of solid waste controversial?
It releases air pollutants
What environmental problem can arise from the illegal disposal of rubber tires?
Breeding grounds for mosquitoes leading to disease spread
Which hazardous chemicals can leach from e-wastes if not disposed of properly?
Lead and mercury
What is the primary purpose of secondary treatment in sewage treatment?
Biological breakdown of organic matter
Which strategy can help reduce the volume of solid waste in landfills?
Burning waste for energy production
"Composting can be used as ___ according to the text."
"a fertilizer"
Which option accurately describes tertiary treatment in sewage treatment?
Use of ecological processes to remove pollutants
What is one drawback of recycling mentioned in the text?
High energy consumption and cost
How are the gases produced from decomposition in landfills utilized?
Used to generate electricity by turning turbines
Learn about the differences between point and nonpoint sources of pollution and understand the impacts of human activities on aquatic ecosystems. Discover how pollutants can affect organisms and the environment in various ways.
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