Chapter 7: Surface Water Flashcards
When does Water Pollution occur
When discharges of energy or materials degrade water
What are the 3 Water Pollution classifications?
- Nature of Pollutants
- Sources releasing them
- Water bodies into which they are discharged
How is Water Pollution measured?
By concentration of pollutants
What are some Water Pollutants of concern?
- Oxygen-demanding wastes
- Nutrients
- Thermal pollution
- Pathogens
- Acidification
What saturation value of DO do fish need?
At least 5 mg/L
What are two ways surface water pollution is measured?
- Concentrations of contaminant
- Potential for oxygen depletion
How is BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) created?
By oxygen demanding wastes decaying in the water
What is the five day BOD test?
Total amount of oxygen consumed by microorganisms during the first 5 days of biodegredation
Think about the Oxygen consumed vs. time graph, and what are the components?
- L0
- BOD5
- Total BOD
- CBOD
- NBOD
Why are BOD5 tests not affected by nitrification?
Because NBOD starts 5 to 8 days into test
What is eutrophication?
A process whereby waterbodies receive excess nutrients that stimulate excessive plant growth.
Name some sources of nutrients.
- Fertilizers
- Nitrogen deposits
- Soil
- Sewage
What are some results of Thermal Pollution?
- Reducing DO
- Accelerating eutrophication
- Affecting ecological processes
- Blocking fish migration paths
What are some causes of Thermal Pollution?
- Power plants
- Deforestation of shoreline
- Soil erosion
Name 4 types of disease causing pathogens
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Protozoa
- Helminth
Name and define transmission mechanisms of diseases in water
- waterborne: ingestion of pathogens through water
- water-washed: scarcity of water causing uncleanliness
- water based: contact with diseased water
- water related: involves host/vector that relies on water
Name diseases and their vectors
- Diarrheal: microorganisms
- Schistosomiasis: water snails
- Malaria: mosquitos
- Onchocerciasis: black flies
What is the drinking water guideline?
<500 ppm Total Dissolved Solids
What are some common heavy metals?
Mercury
Arsenic
Copper
Barium
Cadmium
Lead
What are VOC’s?
Volatile Organic compounds that become vapours or gases easily
What pH level do very few aquatic organisms survive below
5.0
What substances are harmful in low pH environments?
Minerals
What are Buffers?
Substances capable of neutralizing the added hydrogen ion
What are the two components of the problem in the UN Sustainability Development Goal?
Water Quality
Water Quantity