Nutrient Pollution and Its Effects

Nutrient pollution is a significant national issue affecting areas like the Chesapeake Bay and Mississippi River Basin. It results from excess nitrogen and phosphorus, primarily due to human activities, leading to polluted water, harmful algal blooms, and dead zones. These issues threaten health, tourism, and the economy. Sources include agriculture, urban runoff, and sewage. Awareness and prevention are crucial to mitigate these effects and protect water resources.

Which areas are notably affected by nutrient pollution?

• Nile River

• Great Lakes

• Amazon River

• Chesapeake Bay

What are the natural roles of nitrogen and phosphorus in ecosystems?

• They cause algal blooms.

• They are harmful to fish.

• They support aquatic plant growth.

• They are pollutants.

How can nutrient pollution affect human health?

• By improving water quality

• By increasing fish populations

• By contaminating drinking water

• By reducing air pollution

What is a potential consequence of algal blooms?

• Increased fish populations

• Decreased tourism

• Improved water clarity

• Production of harmful toxins

What is a dead zone?

• An area with abundant aquatic life

• A region with no aquatic life

• A zone with clean water

• A place with high tourism

Which of the following is a source of nutrient pollution?

• Lawn fertilizers

• Solar panels

• Wind turbines

• Electric cars

How can nutrient pollution be reduced?

• By promoting algal blooms

• By increasing nitrogen and phosphorus use

• By limiting excess nutrients

• By ignoring the problem

What is the first step in combating nutrient pollution?

• Raising awareness

• Reducing water treatment

• Ignoring the issue

• Increasing pollution

Why is it important to address nutrient pollution?

• To protect health and support the economy

• To increase property values

• To reduce fish populations

• To promote algal blooms