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Multiple Choice
What conclusion can you draw from the fact that sewage adds nitrogen compounds to the environment?
A
It prevents the cycling of nitrogen in the ecosystem.
B
It reduces the growth of algae in water bodies.
C
It can lead to eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems.
D
It decreases the availability of nutrients for plants.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of eutrophication: Eutrophication is the process by which water bodies become enriched with excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, leading to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants.
Recognize the role of nitrogen compounds: Sewage often contains nitrogen compounds, which act as nutrients for algae and aquatic plants when released into water bodies.
Analyze the impact of excessive nutrients: Excessive nitrogen compounds can disrupt the balance of aquatic ecosystems by promoting rapid algae growth, which can block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels in the water.
Connect the process to ecosystem consequences: The overgrowth of algae can lead to oxygen depletion (hypoxia) as algae die and decompose, harming aquatic organisms and potentially causing dead zones in the water body.
Draw the conclusion: Based on the above analysis, sewage adding nitrogen compounds to the environment can lead to eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems, which is the correct answer to the problem.