What process is likely responsible for a stream being free of pollutants downstream from a sewage discharge?

What process is likely responsible for a stream being free of pollutants downstream from a sewage discharge?

• A. Succession
• B. Eutrophication
• C. Decomposition
• D. Photosynthesis

Answer: (C)

The process that is likely responsible for a stream being free of pollutants downstream from a sewage discharge is decomposition. When sewage is discharged into a stream, it introduces organic matter and nutrients that can be harmful to aquatic life. However, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi play a crucial role in breaking down this organic material through decomposition. As these microorganisms consume the organic pollutants, they convert them into simpler substances, effectively reducing the concentration of harmful substances in the water. This process can lead to a recovery of water quality as pollutants are transformed into non-toxic compounds and mineral nutrients that can be utilized by plants and other organisms in the ecosystem. Consequently, downstream from the sewage discharge, the stream can become clearer and healthier as these decomposers do their work, making it free of pollutants. In this context, other processes such as succession, eutrophication, and photosynthesis do happen in aquatic ecosystems but are not primarily responsible for the immediate reduction of pollutants in the water resulting from sewage discharge. Succession refers to the gradual process of change in community structure over time, while eutrophication is related to nutrient enrichment that can lead to oxygen depletion. Photosynthesis contributes to overall ecosystem health by producing oxygen and organic matter but does not directly break down sewage pollutants

The process that is likely responsible for a stream being free of pollutants downstream from a sewage discharge is decomposition.

When sewage is discharged into a stream, it introduces organic matter and nutrients that can be harmful to aquatic life. However, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi play a crucial role in breaking down this organic material through decomposition. As these microorganisms consume the organic pollutants, they convert them into simpler substances, effectively reducing the concentration of harmful substances in the water.

This process can lead to a recovery of water quality as pollutants are transformed into non-toxic compounds and mineral nutrients that can be utilized by plants and other organisms in the ecosystem. Consequently, downstream from the sewage discharge, the stream can become clearer and healthier as these decomposers do their work, making it free of pollutants.

In this context, other processes such as succession, eutrophication, and photosynthesis do happen in aquatic ecosystems but are not primarily responsible for the immediate reduction of pollutants in the water resulting from sewage discharge. Succession refers to the gradual process of change in community structure over time, while eutrophication is related to nutrient enrichment that can lead to oxygen depletion. Photosynthesis contributes to overall ecosystem health by producing oxygen and organic matter but does not directly break down sewage pollutants