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Multiple Choice
Which of the following would be a result of eutrophication of a lake?
A
A decline in nutrient concentrations
B
An increase in water clarity
C
A decrease in dissolved oxygen levels
D
A reduction in algal growth
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of eutrophication: Eutrophication is the process by which a body of water becomes enriched with nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, often due to runoff from agriculture or urban areas. This nutrient enrichment leads to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants.
Recognize the consequences of eutrophication: Excessive algal growth can block sunlight from reaching deeper parts of the water, disrupting the ecosystem and reducing oxygen production by submerged plants.
Explain the role of decomposition: When algae die, they sink to the bottom of the lake and are decomposed by bacteria. This decomposition process consumes dissolved oxygen in the water, leading to hypoxic (low oxygen) or anoxic (no oxygen) conditions.
Analyze the options provided: A decline in nutrient concentrations and an increase in water clarity are not consistent with eutrophication, as nutrient levels increase and water clarity decreases due to algal blooms. A reduction in algal growth contradicts the primary effect of eutrophication, which is excessive algal growth.
Conclude that the correct result of eutrophication is a decrease in dissolved oxygen levels, as this is a direct consequence of the decomposition of organic matter from algal blooms.