All Flashcards
How do scientists monitor water quality?
By measuring dissolved oxygen (DO), nutrient levels, and disease-causing organisms/toxins.
Describe the cleanup process of oil spills.
Involves chemical dispersants and controlled burns, which release carbon into the atmosphere.
What impacts water quality?
Recreation, drinking water, and fishing.
What is the relationship between BOD and DO?
High BOD leads to low DO, which is harmful to aquatic life.
How does temperature affect DO?
Cooler water holds more DO than warmer water.
What is the significance of indicator species?
Their presence or absence indicates ecosystem health and pollution levels.
What is the effect of high BOD on aquatic ecosystems?
Leads to low DO, causing hypoxic or anoxic conditions that harm aquatic life.
What are the environmental consequences of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill?
Killed wildlife, damaged fisheries, and released carbon through cleanup methods.
What are the environmental consequences of the Exxon Valdez oil spill?
Oiled coastlines, killed animals, and hurt the local economy.
How can increased nutrient levels affect aquatic ecosystems?
Leads to excessive algae growth. When these algae die, they are decomposed by microorganisms, which use up large amounts of dissolved oxygen in the process. This can lead to a decrease in DO levels, which can harm fish and other aquatic life.