Water pollution Flashcards
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Definition of Water Pollution
Water pollution occurs when harmful substances contaminate water bodies like rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater, making the water unsafe for humans, animals, and the environment.
Quote on Water Pollution
“Water is life’s matter and matrix, mother and medium. There is no life without water.” – Albert Szent-Gyorgyi
Causes of Water Pollution: Industrial Waste
Factories release toxic chemicals and heavy metals into water.
Causes of Water Pollution: Agricultural Runoff
Fertilizers and pesticides mix with water sources.
Causes of Water Pollution: Sewage and Wastewater
Untreated household and industrial sewage pollutes water.
Causes of Water Pollution: Plastic Pollution
Non-degradable plastics clog water bodies.
Causes of Water Pollution: Oil Spills
Accidental spills during oil transport harm aquatic life.
Effects of Water Pollution: Harm to Marine Life
Toxic water kills fish, plants, and other organisms.
Effects of Water Pollution: Health Problems
Diseases like cholera and dysentery spread through polluted water.
Effects of Water Pollution: Damage to Ecosystems
Pollutants disturb the balance of aquatic ecosystems.
Effects of Water Pollution: Economic Losses
Fisheries and tourism industries suffer.
Effects of Water Pollution: Water Scarcity
Pollution reduces the availability of clean drinking water.
Three Stages of Water Pollution: Physical Stage
Visible debris like plastics and sediment accumulate.
Three Stages of Water Pollution: Chemical Stage
Harmful chemicals and toxins dissolve in the water.
Three Stages of Water Pollution: Biological Stage
Growth of harmful microorganisms makes water unsafe.
Countries with Lowest Water Pollution
- Finland
- Iceland
- Norway
- Switzerland
- New Zealand
Countries with Highest Water Pollution
- India
- China
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Nigeria
Importance of Water: Life Sustainer
Essential for all living organisms.
Importance of Water: Economic Growth
Powers industries, farming, and energy production.
Importance of Water: Health
Keeps us hydrated and helps in digestion.
Importance of Water: Biodiversity
Supports diverse ecosystems.
Importance of Water: Cultural Value
Plays a vital role in traditions and rituals.
Quote on Importance of Water
“Thousands have lived without love, not one without water.” – W.H. Auden
