Water pollution is a problem for humans and wildlife - AQA - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 2
Water pollution is a problem for humans and wildlife.
Explain how human activities are polluting rivers, lakes and seas.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Water pollution is a problem for humans and wildlife - AQA - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Increase in World Population
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Answer
The increase in the world population leads to higher amounts of sewage being released into rivers, lakes, and seas. This sewage introduces nutrients that can cause algae to grow excessively, which can block sunlight and cause plants in the water to die and decompose. This process depletes oxygen levels, leading to environmental harm.
Step 2
Need for Increased Food Production
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Answer
To produce more food to sustain the growing population, farmers often use fertilizers and pesticides. These chemicals can run off into nearby water bodies, leading to nutrient loading, which contributes to algae blooms in rivers, lakes, and seas. The decay of this algae further reduces oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic life.
Step 3
Toxic Chemicals from Industries
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Answer
Industries contribute to water pollution by discharging toxic chemicals into rivers and seas. Chemicals can build up in food chains and disrupt ecosystems. For example, certain chemicals may act as hormonal disruptors, affecting the reproductive systems of wildlife.
Step 4
Radiation and Waste
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Answer
Radiation leaks from nuclear power stations can contaminate water sources, leading to severe ecological and health effects. Additionally, acid rain formation contributes to the acidification of water bodies, causing further harm to aquatic organisms.
Step 5
Buildup of Waste Products
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Answer
The littering of plastics and other waste in rivers, lakes, and seas leads to dire consequences for wildlife. Many plastics are not biodegradable and can cause ingestion issues for aquatic animals, leading to their injury or death.
Step 6
Consequences for Wildlife
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The overall consequence of these pollutants is that organisms living in rivers, lakes, and seas are harmed. This can result in decreased biodiversity, as sensitive species may die off, thus disrupting the ecological balance.
