Study Notes
Pollution is the process by which harmful substances are added to the environment, often due to human activities, making it undesirable or unfit for life. Pollutants are substances that cause pollution.
- Untreated Sewage — Waste matter from homes or industries that can cause diseases if discharged into water bodies. Example: Untreated sewage can lead to eutrophication in rivers.
- Eutrophication — A process where excess nutrients in water bodies lead to excessive algae growth and oxygen depletion. Example: Fertilizers washing into lakes causing algal blooms.
- Non-biodegradable Plastics — Plastics that do not decompose easily, causing harm to land and aquatic ecosystems. Example: Marine animals ingesting plastic particles.
- Greenhouse Gases — Gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Example: Carbon dioxide and methane increasing the greenhouse effect.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Pollution
- Eutrophication
- Greenhouse gases
Common Confusions
- Mixing up the causes and effects of pollution
- Confusing greenhouse gases with pollutants
Typical Exam Questions
- What is eutrophication? Eutrophication is the process where excess nutrients in water bodies lead to excessive algae growth and oxygen depletion.
- How do non-biodegradable plastics affect marine life? Marine animals may ingest plastics or become entangled, leading to injury or death.
- What are the effects of the enhanced greenhouse effect? It leads to global warming and climate change.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of how pollutants affect ecosystems
- The process and consequences of eutrophication
- The role of greenhouse gases in climate change