Question

Oil spill took place in Indian Ocean from a oil refinery. What will be the implications?

• A. Oil will form the top layer on ocean water
• B. Oxygen supply to marine organisms will get cut off
• C. Oil will settle down at lower levels with passage of time
• D. Oil will mix with ocean water after a long time and will be inseparable

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B)

The correct options are
A

Oil will form the top layer on ocean water

B

Oxygen supply to marine organisms will get cut off

During oil spills, oil forms the topmost layer above ocean water since the relative density of oil is less than 1. Also, oil and water are immiscible. At the water surface, oxygen diffuses from atmosphere to water because the concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere is higher. But due to the formation of oil layer above water surface, it will hamper the oxygen supply of underwater organisms (marine biodiversity) and will be a major cause of water pollution.