How is an oxygen sag curve created?
A) The use of unlined landfills, household chemicals, mining refuse, and industrial discharges affects oxygen concentration.
B) The breakdown of biodegradable wastes by bacteria depletes dissolved oxygen.
C) The production of bacteria from livestock and food-processing wastes, and excess salts from soils of irrigated cropland absorbs oxygen.
D) The erosion of sediments and runoff of toxic chemicals react with oxygen.
E) The use of animal feedlots, food-processing facilities, and paper mills depletes oxygen levels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An oxygen sag curve is created due to the breakdown of biodegradable wastes by bacteria which depletes dissolved oxygen. As the waste products break down, the bacteria consumes oxygen, leading to a decline in the oxygen concentration in water. The resulting graph of oxygen concentration vs distance downstream creates an oxygen sag curve.

How Is an Oxygen Sag Curve Created