8.6 Thermal Pollution

Describe the effects of thermal pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

• Thermal pollution occurs when heat released into the water produces negative effects to the organisms in that ecosystem.
• Variations in water temperature affect the concentration of dissolved oxygen because warm water does not contain as much oxygen as cold water.
• Enduring understanding STB-3: Human activities, including the use of resources, have physical, chemical, and biological consequences for ecosystems.