Point and Non-Point Source Pollution

Pollution that comes from MANY different places and is hard to identify its source.

• Point

• Non-Point

Pollution that comes from a single source

• Point

• Non-Point

Snow melts in parking lots and carries oils into nearby waterways

• Point

• Non-Point

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Chemicals released from an Industrial Plant directly into a river

• Point

• Non-Point

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

What distinguishes non-point source pollution from point source pollution?

• Non-point source pollution comes from a single, identifiable source.

• Non-point source pollution is easier to control and manage.

• Non-point source pollution is diffuse, coming from multiple sources.

• Non-point source pollution does not affect water bodies.

Can be traced back to the point of origin.

• Point Source Pollution

• Non-point source pollution

Sewage leaking from a pipe.

• Point Source Pollution

• Non-point source pollution

Which of the following is an example of point source pollution?

• Pesticide runoff from agricultural fields

• Oil spill from a tanker

• Acid rain

• Urban runoff

What is an effective way to mitigate water pollution from agricultural runoff?

• Increasing the use of chemical pesticides

• Planting cover crops and creating buffer zones

• Expanding agricultural land

• Encouraging urban development near water bodies

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

How can individuals contribute to reducing non-point source pollution?

• By increasing the use of chemical fertilizers in gardens

• By properly maintaining their vehicles to prevent oil leaks

• By lobbying for the construction of more factories

• By using more plastic products

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3