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Chapter 3: Problem 14

A scientist observes that the fish population in a local lake has drastically decreased in recent years. On testing the water, it is found to be unusually acidic. The scientist hypothesizes that acid rain is the culprit, but there are no obvious sources nearby. What data might the scientist collect to support his or her hypothesis? A. data about industries that are considering relocation to the area B. data about fish predators C. data about the amount of rainfall over the past few years D. data about weather patterns

Short Answer

Expert verified
C. data about the amount of rainfall over the past few years.

Step by step solution

01

- Identify the Hypothesis

The scientist hypothesizes that acid rain is causing the acidity in the lake and the decline in fish population.
02

- Assess Relevant Data Types

Consider the types of data that would support the hypothesis. We're looking for evidence related to acid rain.
03

- Eliminate Irrelevant Options

Data about industries considering relocating (Option A) and data about fish predators (Option B) are not related to acid rain.
04

- Evaluate Potentially Relevant Options

Options C and D might help. Data about the amount of rainfall (Option C) provides information on the input of rain, possibly acidic. Weather patterns data (Option D) could show patterns consistent with acid rain.
05

- Choose the Most Directly Relevant Data

To directly support the hypothesis, data about the amount of rainfall (Option C) over recent years is most relevant, as it directly correlates with the potential for acid rain.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

acid rain
Acid rain forms when pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides react with water vapor in the atmosphere. These reactions produce sulfuric and nitric acids, which then fall to the ground with precipitation.
When acid rain enters lakes and rivers, it lowers the pH level of the water. This increased acidity can harm aquatic life, such as fish and their food sources. The key data to support this involves monitoring pH levels and pollutant releases from industrial activities nearby.
Scientists may collect data on:
  • Local air pollution levels
  • pH levels in rainwater
  • The presence of specific pollutants in the water
    • Understanding where these pollutants originate, possibly from distant industrial sources carried by wind, is essential.
Addressing acid rain often involves reducing emissions from power plants, vehicles, and factories.
fish population decline
Fish populations can decline for various reasons, but acid rain influences aquatic ecosystems significantly. Lower pH levels can:
  • Damage fish gills
  • Interfere with their ability to reproduce
  • Reduce food availability by affecting microorganisms and plants
    • In studying the decline, scientists would observe fish health, breeding patterns, and food chain disruptions.
    Measuring the fish population over time and correlating it with water chemistry data helps determine if acid rain is a factor. Comparing lakes with different pH levels gives a clearer picture of acid rain's impact.
Restoring fish populations may involve strategies like lime treatments to neutralize acidic waters and improving local land use practices to reduce runoff.
data collection in science
Data collection is a critical scientific process involving gathering information systematically to test hypotheses and draw conclusions.
To support the hypothesis about acid rain, scientists can gather various data types:
  • Historical rainfall data to track changes in precipitation patterns
  • Weather data, linking rainfall to atmospheric pollution origins
  • Water pH levels over time to spot trends in acidity
  • Fish population monitoring to see the direct impact on aquatic life
    • Effective data collection often involves fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and sometimes deploying automated sensors. Consistency and accuracy in data collection are crucial for reliable results.
    Finally, combining different data sources provides a comprehensive understanding of the environmental issue. Scientists often use statistical methods to analyze the data and confirm their findings.
environmental science
Environmental science studies interactions between the natural world and human activities. It includes aspects of biology, chemistry, geology, and social sciences to understand and address environmental challenges.
Key areas in this field involve:
  • Understanding ecosystem processes
  • Monitoring pollution and controlling its sources
  • Assessing the impact of human activities on the environment
  • Developing strategies for sustainable development
    • Environmental scientists aim to provide solutions for issues like pollution, climate change, and habitat loss.
    They work in collaboration with governments, industries, and communities to promote practices that protect and improve the environment.
    Innovations in technology and data analysis have significantly advanced the field, enabling more precise monitoring and effective interventions.
By studying environmental science, we can better manage our natural resources and ensure a healthier planet for future generations.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The footprints left behind by the astronauts of Apollo will be visible for close to 10 million years because there is no ________________ on the moon to produce wind and rain.

What is the atmospheric pressure at the eye of a tropical cyclone? A. very high because of converging winds B. very high because of sinking warm air C. very low because of rising warm air D. very low because of dense sinking air

Coal is formed when A. minerals replace the organic matter in dead plants and animals, creating fossils B. deposits of methane are subjected to high pressure until they condense into crystals C. swamp plants are buried by sediment, producing heat and pressure that convert the organic matter to coal D. organic matter from dead plants and animals becomes trapped within layers of sedimentary rock

Which of the following is NOT a fossil fuel? A. coal B. petroleum C. wood D. methane

Water can cause weathering and erosion. The products most likely to form are A. igneous rocks B. metamorphic rocks C. sedimentary rocks D. fine sediments
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