Water Smart: Water as a Natural Resource - Pollution

Water pollution is a significant issue that is not always visible. Clear water can still be polluted with chemicals or be too warm for aquatic life. Pollution sources include oil spills, factory emissions, and acid rain. Point source pollution comes from specific locations, while non-point source pollution is widespread, caused by everyday activities like car oil leaks and improper disposal of chemicals. Understanding these sources helps in addressing the pollution problem.

What is a common misconception about water pollution?

• It is not harmful to fish.

• It is only caused by humans.

• It only affects oceans.

• It is always visible.

What is an example of point source pollution?

• Oil leaks from cars

• Rainwater washing away pesticides

• Fertilizer runoff from lawns

• A factory discharging waste into a river

How does acid rain form?

• From natural evaporation of polluted water

• From fertilizers used in agriculture

• From smokestack emissions mixing with rain

• From oil spills in the ocean

What is a characteristic of non-point source pollution?

• It originates from a single location.

• It is caused by widespread human activities.

• It is easy to trace back to its source.

• It only occurs in rural areas.

Which of the following is a contributor to non-point source pollution?

• A leaking oil tanker

• A chemical factory

• A car leaking oil

• A sewage treatment plant