Water Pollutants

Definition

Water pollutants are substances or contaminants that make water unsafe for humans, animals, and plants. They can include chemicals, microorganisms, or even excessive amounts of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.

Related terms

Eutrophication:

The excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants due to an abundance of nutrients in the water.

Point Source Pollution:

Pollution that comes from a single identifiable source such as industrial discharge pipes.

Nonpoint Source Pollution:

Pollution that comes from diffuse sources such as runoff from agricultural fields or urban areas.