Phosphate pollution is caused by[1997]a)phosphate rocks onlyb)agricult...
Part of fertilizers containing phosphates are passed down into water bodies as surface run off. Sewage contamination also results in algal bloom (eutrophication) due to increased availability of nitrate and phosphate.
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Phosphate pollution is caused by[1997]a)phosphate rocks onlyb)agricult...
Causes of Phosphate Pollution:
Phosphate pollution is primarily caused by a combination of sewage and agricultural fertilizers. Let's break down the reasons behind this:
Sewage:
- Sewage contains high levels of phosphates from various sources such as detergents, soaps, and human waste.
- When sewage is not properly treated or disposed of, these phosphates can enter water bodies, leading to phosphate pollution.
Agricultural Fertilizers:
- Fertilizers used in agriculture often contain phosphates to enhance plant growth.
- Excess use of these fertilizers can result in runoff, where rainwater carries the phosphates into nearby rivers, lakes, and streams.
- This runoff contributes to the high levels of phosphates in water bodies, causing phosphate pollution.
Combined Effect:
- The combination of phosphates from sewage and agricultural fertilizers leads to a significant increase in phosphate levels in water bodies.
- This excessive amount of phosphates can lead to eutrophication, where algae growth is accelerated, leading to oxygen depletion and harm to aquatic life.
In conclusion, phosphate pollution is primarily caused by the discharge of phosphates from sewage and agricultural fertilizers into water bodies. It is crucial to properly manage and regulate the use of fertilizers and treat sewage to prevent further pollution and protect the environment.
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