Understanding Water Pollution

What is the primary source of point-source pollution?

• Natural sources like seeps

• Leakage from underground structures

• From a discrete location, like a factory or sewer pipe

• From many places spread over a large area

What causes nutrient pollution?

• Excess phosphorus and other nutrients in the water

• Pathogens entering a waterway

• Heat sources raising water temperature

• Excess sediment in the water

What is a common result of thermal pollution?

• Increased sediment in water

• Decreased oxygen levels in water

• Increased algae growth

• Raised temperature of a waterway

Which process describes the accumulation of nutrients leading to increased plant and algae growth?

• Eutrophication

• Filtration

• Coagulation

• Sedimentation

What is the largest single source of oil pollution in the ocean?

• Natural seeps

• Agricultural runoff

• Sewer overflows

• Factory discharges

What legislation helps to control water pollution by setting standards and requiring permits?

• Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

• Safe Drinking Water Act

• Clean Water Act

• Clean Air Act

What is the primary method to reduce biological pollution?

• Water treatment

• Chemical use reduction

• Sediment control

• Nutrient reduction

Which of the following is NOT a typical step in the water treatment process?

• Bioaccumulation

• Sedimentation

• Disinfection

• Coagulation

What effect does sediment pollution have on aquatic environments?

• Reduces pathogen levels

• Increases oxygen levels

• Increases water temperature

• Decreases photosynthesis rates

How should a city address the issue of stormwater runoff contributing to water pollution in urban areas?

• Ignore the runoff as it is a natural occurrence.

• Build larger sewer systems to handle increased water flow.

• Develop green spaces and permeable surfaces to naturally absorb and filter runoff.

• Encourage residents to use more water to dilute the pollutants.

Tags

DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking