Clean Water Act and Water Contamination Explained
How does lead get into water?
A-it is released into waterways with industrial waste
B-it is a byproduct of detergents interacting with organic matter
C-it occurs naturally in water
D-it leaches into water as old pipes corrode
Which part of the government has authority to enforce the clean water act?
A-president
B-congress
C-the environmental protection agency
D-U.S. forest services
Which of the following water supplies would be affected directly by groundwater contamination?
A-wells
B-lakes
C-streams
D-rivers
What role do bacteria play in an aquaponics system?
A-they transform fish waste into food
B-they enrich the water to help fish grow
C- they break down dead plant matter
D-they warn that the fish are sick
Answers:
1. Lead gets into water by leaching as old pipes corrode.
2. The clean water act is enforced by EPA - environmental protection agency.
3. The wells are most likely to get affected directly by ground water contamination compared to other water bodies.
4. Bacteria play an important role in an aquaponics system by transforming fish waste into food.
Lead can get into drinking water by entering a drinking water supply or from lead-containing piping, home plumbing or fixtures. Contamination of source water can occur due to discharge from industries that burn fossil fuels, mine, smelt, and manufacture. The main cause of lead contamination in water is attributed to the corrosion of lead that was already present in pipes and fittings.
The Clean Water Act is enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This act sets regulations and standards for water quality, aiming to protect and restore the nation's waters.
Wells are most likely to be affected directly by groundwater contamination compared to lakes, streams, or rivers. Wells absorb groundwater directly for use, making them more susceptible to contamination.
Bacteria play a crucial role in aquaponics systems by transforming fish waste into food that can be used by plants. This process helps to create a symbiotic relationship between fish and plants in a closed-loop system.
It is important to understand the sources and impacts of water contamination to ensure the safety and quality of our water supply. By following regulations such as the Clean Water Act and implementing proper water treatment processes, we can strive to protect our water resources for the future.