AP Environmental Science 8.6: Thermal Pollution
Practice AP Environmental Science questions on thermal pollution, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and aquatic ecosystem effects.
- Syllabus
- Effective Fall 2025
- Course
- AP Environmental Science
Exam points
- explain how warm-water thermal pollution lowers dissolved oxygen and stresses aquatic organisms
Covered syllabus points
8.6 Thermal Pollution question 1
[Maximum number: 1]
Earth's climate has changed over time by the addition of greenhouse gasses to the atmosphere. One approach to mitigate climate change is the use of nuclear power, rather than coal-burning power plants, for electricity generation.
Describe a negative environmental impact on nearby bodies of water that is caused by using water for cooling in nuclear power plants.
Describe a negative environmental impact on nearby bodies of water that is caused by using water for cooling in nuclear power plants.
Accept one of the following:
- Thermal pollution raises water temperature outside range of tolerance of organisms.
- Thermal pollution decreases dissolved oxygen.
- Water temperature increases, which decreases dissolved oxygen.
- Organisms can be wounded or killed at water intake.
- Water loss through evaporation can decrease stream flow/volume of water.
1 point
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