Nitrates
Definition
Nitrates are chemical compounds made up of nitrogen and oxygen. They are commonly found in fertilizers and can enter water bodies through runoff or leaching. High levels of nitrates in water can lead to pollution and harm aquatic ecosystems.
Related terms
Nitrogen Cycle: The process by which nitrogen is converted into different forms and cycles through the environment.
Eutrophication: The excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants due to high nutrient levels, such as nitrates, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels.
Groundwater Contamination: The pollution of underground water sources, such as wells or aquifers, by substances like nitrates from agricultural activities or industrial processes.
"Nitrates" appears in:
Study guides (1)
AP Environmental Science - 8.5 Eutrophication
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
Stay Connected
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.