Practice AP Environmental Science questions on thermal pollution, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and aquatic ecosystem effects.
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