ENEV 321: L-15 Nutrients

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to nutrients in water resource management, focusing on nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics and their environmental implications.

Eutrophication

A process where water bodies receive excess nutrients that stimulate excessive plant growth, leading to ecological issues.

Nitrogen (N)

An essential nutrient for plants and animals, crucial in various biological processes.

Phosphorus (P)

A key nutrient that can contribute to algal blooms and is a factor in eutrophication when present in excess.

Ammonia (NH3)

A toxic form of nitrogen that is a by-product of organic matter decomposition and has significant environmental impacts.

Algal Bloom

Rapid increase in algal growth in water bodies due to excess nutrients, causing reduced oxygen levels.

DO (Dissolved Oxygen)

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

Nitrification

The biological oxidation of ammonia to nitrite and then to nitrate, typically occurring under aerobic conditions.

Denitrification

The reduction of nitrates back to nitrogen gas, occurring under anaerobic conditions, completing the nitrogen cycle.

Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)

A measure of nitrogen in water that includes organic and ammonia nitrogen.

Nitrite (NO2-)

An intermediate in the nitrification process that can be harmful to aquatic life and is considered a potential carcinogen.

Nitrate (NO3-)

A form of nitrogen that, in high concentrations, can cause health issues in infants and contribute to eutrophication.

Nitrogen Species

Different forms of nitrogen that exist in the environment, including nitrogen gas, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates.

pH

A measure of how acidic or basic a solution is, affecting various chemical reactions including ammonia toxicity.

Acute Toxicity

The harmful effects of a substance that occur shortly after a single or short-term exposure.

Chronic Toxicity

The prolonged harmful effects of a substance after continuous or repeated exposure over a longer period.

Oxidation State

A measure of the degree of oxidation of an atom in a compound, which can be influenced by microbial activity.

Polyphosphate

A dehydrated form of orthophosphate used in water treatment processes to control corrosion.

Biodegradation

The process by which organic substances are broken down by living organisms, usually bacteria.

Phosphorus Accumulating Organisms (PAOs)

Microorganisms used in biological treatment for the removal of phosphorus from wastewater.

Environmental Significance of Nitrogen

Nitrogen plays a crucial role in water quality and ecosystem health, influencing eutrophication and potential toxicity.

Regulatory Standards

Established limits for the concentration of harmful substances, like nitrates and nitrites, in drinking water.