Question

Eutrophication causes a reduction in:

• A. Nutrients
• B. Dissolved salts
• C. Dissolved oxygen
• D. All of these

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Dissolved oxygen

The correct option is C.

The explanation for the correct option:

1. Eutrophication is the gradual enrichment of a whole body of water, or areas of it, with minerals and nutrients, typically nitrogen and phosphorus.
2. As the amount of inorganic content increases, the accumulation of algae also increases which causes a reduction in dissolved oxygen.
3. The excess algae and plant matter eventually decompose, producing large amounts of carbon dioxide.

The explanation for incorrect options:

Option A:

Eutrophication occurs when nutrients increase.

Option B:

Eutrophication occurs as a result of increased mineral salts.

Final answer: Eutrophication causes a reduction in dissolved oxygen.