Water Quality

Front

What is Eutrophication?

Back

Eutrophication is the process by which a body of water becomes overly enriched with nutrients (like nitrates and phosphates), leading to excessive growth of algae and depletion of oxygen, creating 'dead zones'.

Front

What is the relationship between water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels?

Back

As water temperature increases, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreases. Warmer water holds less oxygen than cooler water.

Front

What is considered a healthy level of turbidity in water?

Back

Healthy levels of turbidity are generally less than 1 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units). Levels above 20 NTU are considered unhealthy.

Front

What does a turbidity meter measure?

Back

A turbidity meter measures the cloudiness or haziness of a liquid, which indicates the amount of suspended particles in the water.

Front

What happens to dissolved oxygen levels during the day in a lake?

Back

Dissolved oxygen levels can drop during the day due to increased water temperature and the respiration of aquatic organisms.

Front

What are nitrates and phosphates?

Back

Nitrates and phosphates are nutrients that can promote plant growth in water bodies, but excessive amounts can lead to eutrophication.

Front

What is the significance of dissolved oxygen in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Dissolved oxygen is crucial for the survival of fish and other aquatic organisms, as they rely on it for respiration.

Front

How does turbidity affect aquatic life?

Back

High turbidity can block sunlight, reducing photosynthesis in aquatic plants and disrupting the food chain.

Front

What is the role of temperature in water quality?

Back

Temperature affects the solubility of gases (like oxygen) in water, the metabolic rates of organisms, and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.

Front

What is a dead zone in a body of water?

Back

A dead zone is an area in a body of water where oxygen levels are so low that marine life cannot survive, often caused by eutrophication.