SAQ

Question 1

Identify two changes between 2003 and 2011 along the southern shore of the lake between Sandusky and Cleveland [2]

Answer 1

Distance from the shore has increased

Larger area of water has been affected

Question 2

Outline one environmental problem caused by eutrophication [2]

Answer 2

Excessive input of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus into water bodies,

leads to overgrowth of vegetation on the surface

which blocks sunlight and kills aquatic life due to light deprivation and anoxia

Question 3

Explain one human reason why some areas of a freshwater lake such as this experience high levels of eutrophication [3].

Answer 3

Farmers often use fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus to enhance crop growth, which is washed off the fields and enter nearby water bodies through runoff. This serves as nutrients for algae and aquatic plants and lead to algal blooms and excessive vegetation.

Question 4

Explain one physical reason why some areas of a freshwater lake such as this experience high levels of eutrophication [3].

Answer 4

Shallow water tends to warm up more quickly due to greater exposure to sunlight.

Warmer water temperatures create favourable conditions for the growth of algae.

The combination of shallow water and increased temperatures can enhance the growth of algae, leading to algal blooms and eutrophication in these areas.