NC ESS.8.3.1 Water Quality Indicators

Which of the following is a biological indicator of water quality?

• pH level

• Temperature

• Presence of macroinvertebrates

• Turbidity

High levels of nitrates and phosphates in water are most likely caused by:

• Melting glaciers

• Acid rain

• Agricultural runoff

• Increased dissolved oxygen

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What does a high turbidity level in a river usually indicate?

• Clear, safe water

• High levels of oxygen

• A large number of healthy fish

• Cloudy water that may contain pollutants or sediments

Which pH range is generally considered safe for most aquatic life?

• 1–3

• 4–5

• 6.5–8.5

• 9–11

Why is dissolved oxygen important in water ecosystems?

• It keeps the water warm

• It prevents algae growth

• It is needed by aquatic organisms to survive

• It lowers nitrate levels

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Which of the following would most likely cause a decrease in dissolved oxygen in a lake?

• Cold temperatures

• Increased plant photosynthesis

• An algae bloom followed by decomposition

• Rainfall

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

Bio-indicators such as mayflies and stoneflies are useful because:

• They reduce water pollution

• They are sensitive to pollution and indicate water quality

If the water in a North Carolina stream has a high temperature and low dissolved oxygen, what might this suggest?

• The water is likely clean and safe

• Aquatic life is thriving

• The stream may be polluted or stressed

• The stream is healthy and balanced

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Which of the following is most likely to increase the temperature of a stream or river?

• Planting trees along the banks

• Shade from overhanging vegetation

• Removal of vegetation and deforestation

• Presence of cold-water fish

A water sample has high nitrate levels. What health risk can this pose to humans, especially infants?

• Lung infection

• Dehydration

• Blue baby syndrome

• Skin rash