Acid rain & water quality
What is acid rain?
Rain with elevated levels of hydrogen ions (low pH)
What problem can algal blooms cause in aquatic ecosystems?
They block sunlight and deplete oxygen when they decompose
What distinguishes lentic ecosystems from lotic ecosystems?
Water movement (still vs. flowing)
Which Earth system includes all living organisms?
Biosphere
What is a buffer in relation to water quality?
A solution that will not change pH much even when acids or bases are added
What is point source pollution?
A localized and stationary pollution source
What is DDT?
A contact insecticide toxic to humans and animals
What are phytoplankton?
Microscopic primary producers that use sunlight for photosynthesis.
What is the primary goal of water quality testing?
To ensure water bodies meet safety and ecological standards
What is non-point source pollution?
contaminated runoff that comes from diffuse sources.
Which of the following best describes a lentic ecosystem?
An ecosystem with still water like ponds and lakes
What are zooplankton?
Microscopic primary consumers that eat phytoplankton
What do you call a sleeping dinosaur?
A dino-snore!
What historical event involving the Cuyahoga River helped spark environmental awareness in the United States?
The river catching fire due to pollution
Which of the following best describes a lotic ecosystem?
An ecosystem with flowing water
What is the major difference between phytoplankton and zooplankton?
Phytoplankton are producers while zooplankton are consumers
What does the Safe Drinking Water Act do?
Sets standards for protecting groundwater and safety of public drinking water
What can cause harmful algal blooms in aquatic ecosystems?
Excessive nutrients from fertilizer runoff
What was the main message of Rachel Carson's book "Silent Spring"?
The harmful effects of pesticides like DDT on the environment
What do you call cheese that isn't yours?
Nacho Cheese