Thermal pollution
Definition
Thermal pollution occurs when there is an increase in temperature in natural bodies of water due to human activities. It can negatively impact aquatic ecosystems by reducing oxygen levels and disrupting the balance of species living in the water.
Analogy
Think of thermal pollution as adding too much hot sauce to a dish. Just like how excessive heat can overpower the flavors of a meal, an increase in water temperature can disrupt the delicate balance of aquatic life.
Related terms
Thermal shock: A sudden change in water temperature that can harm or kill aquatic organisms.
Cooling water: Water used to lower the temperature of machinery or industrial processes, which is then discharged back into natural bodies of water.
Dissolved oxygen: The amount of oxygen present in water, which is crucial for supporting aquatic life.
"Thermal pollution" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Additional resources (2)
Practice Questions (14)
- What is the primary source of thermal pollution in aquatic ecosystems?
- How does thermal pollution affect aquatic organisms?
- What is a potential consequence of thermal pollution in aquatic ecosystems?
- What is one method to mitigate thermal pollution in aquatic ecosystems?
- What is the role of dissolved oxygen in thermal pollution?
- Which factor contributes to the severity of thermal pollution in aquatic ecosystems?
- How does thermal pollution affect the dissolved oxygen levels in aquatic ecosystems?
- What is the primary source of thermal pollution in natural freshwater ecosystems?
- How does thermal pollution affect the oxygen-demanding capacity of aquatic organisms?
- What is the impact of thermal pollution on aquatic biodiversity?
- What is the role of riparian vegetation in mitigating thermal pollution?
- What is the primary negative impact of thermal pollution on fish populations?
- Which action can contribute to the prevention of thermal pollution?
- How does thermal pollution impact the availability of dissolved oxygen for aquatic organisms?
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