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What is water pollution?

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Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies (like lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater) with harmful substances, including chemicals, pathogens, and waste.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

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What are some common causes of water pollution?

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Common causes of water pollution include industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, sewage disposal, and oil spills.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

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What is artificial eutrophication?

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Artificial eutrophication is the process by which water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients (like phosphates and nitrates) due to human activities, leading to excessive growth of algae.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is the impact of nutrient pollution on aquatic ecosystems?

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Nutrient pollution can lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water, harm aquatic life, and disrupt the balance of ecosystems.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

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What is turbidity and why is it important?

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Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid caused by large numbers of individual particles. It is important because high turbidity can harm aquatic life and indicate pollution.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

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What are phosphates and how do they contribute to water pollution?

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Phosphates are chemical compounds containing phosphorus, often found in fertilizers. They can enter water bodies through runoff, leading to nutrient pollution.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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What is the relationship between water temperature and pollution?

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Higher water temperatures can increase the solubility of pollutants and the metabolic rates of aquatic organisms, potentially leading to more severe impacts from pollution.

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What are pathogens and how do they affect water quality?

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Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause disease. Their presence in water indicates contamination and poses health risks to humans and wildlife.

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NGSS.MS-LS1-5

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What is the significance of dissolved oxygen in water bodies?

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Dissolved oxygen is crucial for the survival of aquatic organisms. Low levels can lead to dead zones where life cannot sustain.

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NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

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How can human activities lead to sediment pollution in water bodies?

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Human activities like deforestation, construction, and agriculture can increase soil erosion, leading to sediment runoff into water bodies.

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NGSS.MS-ESS3-4