Thermal Pollution

Flashcards about thermal pollution, its effects on aquatic ecosystems, sources, and related concepts.

Thermal Pollution

Occurs when heat released into water produces negative effects on aquatic organisms.

Effects of Thermal Pollution

Includes increased respiration rates in aquatic organisms and reduced dissolved oxygen levels.

Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

The amount of oxygen that is present in water, which is essential for aquatic life.

Relationship between Water Temperature and Oxygen Solubility

There is an inverse relationship; as water temperature increases, the solubility of oxygen decreases.

Sources of Thermal Pollution

Power plants, steel mills, paper mills, and urban stormwater runoff contribute to thermal pollution.

Cooling Towers

Devices used in power plants to cool water and minimize thermal pollution before returning heated water to local surface water.