Chapter 6: Problem 8

Why is it incorrect to assume that a stream that looks crystal clear is environmentally sound?

Short Answer

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A crystal clear stream may appear to be environmentally sound, but this assumption is incorrect as it does not account for various factors that contribute to the environmental health of the stream. These factors include the presence of invisible pollutants and contaminants, biodiversity within the stream, and changes in the surrounding environment. Environmental soundness cannot solely be determined based on the appearance of the water, and a complete analysis of the stream's ability to support ecological processes and biodiversity is necessary.

Step by step solution

Define Environmental Soundness

Environmental soundness refers to the quality of an ecosystem in maintaining its proper functioning and balancing the diverse range of organisms living within it. An environmentally sound stream is one that is able to support a rich biodiversity, maintain water quality, and exhibit stable and balanced ecological processes.

Understand the Basis of Assumption

The assumption that a crystal clear stream is environmentally sound is based on the idea that clear water represents purity and cleanliness. Clear water often indicates the absence of visible pollutants, such as dirt, debris, and other particulate matter. However, the absence of visible pollutants does not necessarily equate to environmental soundness.

Consider Invisible Pollutants and Contaminants

A stream may appear crystal clear due to the lack of visible pollutants, but it can still contain invisible contaminants, such as chemicals, nutrients, and harmful microorganisms. These contaminants can come from various sources, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, or domestic sewage. The presence of these pollutants may disrupt ecological processes, alter water chemistry, and harm aquatic life, making the stream environmentally unsound despite its clear appearance.

Examine Biodiversity in the Stream

A stream's appearance does not necessarily indicate its ability to support a diverse range of organisms. The environmental soundness of a stream is closely linked to biodiversity, as a higher amount of different species typically signifies a healthy and balanced ecosystem. In some cases, clear water could be a result of an imbalance in the ecosystem, such as the absence of certain organisms that would normally contribute to the murkiness of the water.

Consider Changes in the Surrounding Environment

Even if a stream appears to be crystal clear, alterations in the surrounding environment can significantly impact the stream's environmental soundness. For example, deforestation, land development, and urbanization can lead to increased runoff and erosion, altering the stream's habitats and introducing contaminants into the water.

Conclusion

It is incorrect to assume that a stream that looks crystal clear is environmentally sound because the crystal clear appearance does not account for various factors, such as invisible pollutants, changes in biodiversity, and alterations in the surrounding environment, all of which can impact the environmental soundness of a stream. A complete analysis of the stream's ability to support and maintain ecological processes and biodiversity is needed to accurately determine its environmental soundness.

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Why is it incorrect to assume that a stream that looks crystal clear is environmentally sound?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Environmental Soundness

Understand the Basis of Assumption

Consider Invisible Pollutants and Contaminants

Examine Biodiversity in the Stream

Consider Changes in the Surrounding Environment

Conclusion

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