Water Pollution

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What is water pollution?

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Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies (like rivers, lakes, and oceans) due to harmful substances or pollutants, which can adversely affect aquatic life and human health.

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What is the difference between point source and non-point source pollution?

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Point source pollution comes from a single, identifiable source (like a factory), while non-point source pollution comes from multiple, diffuse sources (like agricultural runoff).

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What is an example of non-point source pollution?

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An example of non-point source pollution is runoff from agricultural fields that carries fertilizers and pesticides into nearby water bodies.

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What is acid rain?

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Acid rain is precipitation that contains high levels of sulfuric and nitric acids, often resulting from industrial emissions, which can harm aquatic ecosystems.

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How do cattle ranches contribute to non-point source pollution?

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Cattle ranches can contribute to non-point source pollution when livestock feed along streams, leading to nutrient runoff and contamination of water.

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What is an example of point source pollution?

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An example of point source pollution is wastewater discharge from a sewage treatment plant directly into a river.

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What are some common pollutants found in water?

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Common water pollutants include heavy metals, nutrients (like nitrogen and phosphorus), pathogens, and plastics.

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How does washing your car in the driveway contribute to water pollution?

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Washing your car in the driveway can lead to non-point source pollution as soap, oil, and dirt wash into storm drains and eventually into local water bodies.

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What is the impact of thermal pollution on aquatic ecosystems?

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Thermal pollution, caused by power plants releasing hot water into rivers, can raise water temperatures, harming fish and other aquatic organisms.

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What role do wetlands play in water pollution control?

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Wetlands act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and sediments from water before it enters larger water bodies.