Multiple choice

Humans’ release of excess phosphates into lakes and rivers can result in

  1. the poisoning of herbivores

  2. phosphate-based gases depleting the ozone layer

  3. acid rain

  4. the overgrowth of aquatic bacteria and algae

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Phosphates are limiting nutrients in aquatic ecosystems. Excess phosphate runoff causes eutrophication, leading to rapid, uncontrolled growth of algae and bacteria.