Biology Topic Practice

Managing Water Pollution

Human waste, fertilisers, and toxic chemicals can all pollute our water systems, killing aquatic life.

What is "eutrophication"?

What is Managing Water Pollution?

"Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies, usually as a result of human activities."

Question 1

Which type of pollution can lead to eutrophication in lakes and rivers?

Question 2

What often happens first in a pond affected by eutrophication?

Question 3

Why do oxygen levels in water often fall after an algal bloom dies?

Pollution Effects

Fertiliser runoff causes algae to grow rapidly (algal bloom).

Algae block light; plants die and are decomposed by bacteria.

Bacteria use up all the oxygen, causing fish and other animals to suffocate.

Exam Tip

Some species, like bloodworms, are pollution indicators because they can survive in low-oxygen water.

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