Gizmos Water Pollution Q&A.

Gizmos Water Pollution Q&A, Prior Knowledge Questions (Do these BEFORE using the Gizmo.) 1. Water pollution is the addition of harmful substances to water. Some of these substances are found at home. What household chemicals might be harmful if not disposed of properly? Some household chemicals are bleach, oven cleaners, drain de-cloggers, and insect and weed killers. 2. What are some other causes of water pollution? Some causes of water pollution are human and plastic waste. Gizmo Warm-up The Water Pollution Gizmo will teach you about some of the main kinds of water pollution. On the TYPE tab, under Types of pollution, check that Toxic is selected. Read the paragraphs on the right and bottom of the Gizmo. 1. What is toxic pollution? Toxic pollution is contaminated water, soil, and air that is harmful or poisonous. 2. What are some examples of toxic pollutants listed in the Gizmo? Radioactive waste, pesticides, lead, oil, and paint. 3. Can you think of other examples of toxic substances, not listed in the Gizmo? Some examples are bleach, cell phones, and electronic devices. Activity A: Types of water pollution Get the Gizmo ready:  Check that the TYPE tab and Toxic pollution are selected. Question: What are the main types of water pollution? 1. Read and learn: Besides toxic pollution, the other types of pollution are sediment pollution, nutrient pollution, and bacterial pollution. You have already described toxic pollution on the previous page. Read about the other types, and describe each in your own words. Sediment pollution Description: Sediment pollution is caused by the erosion of soil in waterways, usually during heavy rain. Causes: It is caused by the soil being eroded after heavy rainfalls. Consequences Sediments pile up in reservoirs, rivers, and harbors, destroy fish and wildlife, and cloud the water, blocking sunlight interfering with aquatic plants. Nutrient pollution Description: Nutrient pollution is the presence of excessive nutrients in water. Causes: High concentrations of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus can promote explosive algal growth and eutrophication. Consequences: When the algae die, the process of decomposition consumes oxygen and leads to a state of hypoxia, or low-oxygen conditions, killing fish and other aquatic organisms. Bacterial pollution Description: Bacteria are tiny organisms that often aid in pollution control by breaking down the organic matter in sewage, oil spills, or other pollutions. Causes: Bacteria can cause problems when untreated human or animal wastes are released directly into water resources