Define water pollution.
The contamination of water bodies, affecting ecosystems and human health.
True or false: Point source pollution comes from a single identifiable source.
TRUE
Examples include discharge from a factory or sewage treatment plant.
Fill in the blank: Nonpoint source pollution is caused by _______ runoff.
diffuse
What is an example of biological pollution?
The introduction of invasive species into a water body.
Define eutrophication.
A process where water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae.
True or false: Heavy metals are a common pollutant in water.
TRUE
Examples include lead, mercury, and cadmium.
What does BOD stand for in water quality testing?
Biochemical Oxygen Demand.
Fill in the blank: Sediment pollution can be caused by _______ erosion.
soil
What is the impact of thermal pollution?
It raises water temperatures, harming aquatic life.
Define water quality.
The chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water, often in relation to its suitability for a particular purpose.
True or false: Nutrients in water are always beneficial.
FALSE
Excessive nutrients can lead to harmful algal blooms.
What is a waterborne disease?
An illness caused by pathogens in contaminated water.
Fill in the blank: Oil spills are a form of _______ pollution.
chemical
What is the role of wetlands in water pollution control?
They filter pollutants and provide habitat for wildlife.
Define drinking water standards.
Regulations set to ensure safe drinking water quality.
True or false: Plastic pollution can affect marine life.
TRUE
Marine animals can ingest or become entangled in plastic.
What is chemical oxygen demand (COD)?
A measure of the amount of organic compounds in water.
Fill in the blank: Stormwater runoff can carry _______ pollutants into water bodies.
urban
What is the purpose of water treatment?
To remove contaminants and make water safe for consumption.
Define aquifer.
A geological formation that can store and transmit groundwater.