The level of decaying organic matter in water is indicated by what measure?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Biochemical oxygen demand measures the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to decompose organic matter in the water. A higher BOD indicates a higher level of organic pollution and potential harm to aquatic life.

Answer: B
 Eutrophication is the process of excessive nutrient enrichment in a water body, often caused by agricultural or urban runoff containing nitrogen and phosphorus. This leads to an overgrowth of algae and other aquatic plants, which can lead to oxygen depletion and harm to aquatic life.

Answer: D
 Nitrogen and phosphorus are two common nutrients found in agricultural and urban runoff that contribute to eutrophication and harmful algal blooms. Monitoring levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in a water body can indicate the potential for eutrophication.

A is not the correct answer as fecal coliform is an indicator of fecal contamination in water, not the level of decaying organic matter.

The Level of Decaying Organic Matter in Water Is Indicated