Multiple Choice
Which statement about plasma is false?
1. Intro to General Chemistry
Chemical Properties
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The dead zone in the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico) is primarily caused by which of the following?
A
Excessive nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff
B
Increased carbon dioxide emissions
C
Overfishing in the region
D
Oil spills from offshore drilling
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the key term in the question: 'dead zone.' A dead zone refers to an area in a body of water with very low oxygen levels (hypoxia), which makes it difficult for marine life to survive.
Understand the primary cause of dead zones: Excessive nutrient pollution, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, leads to algal blooms. When these algae die and decompose, oxygen is consumed, creating hypoxic conditions.
Analyze the options provided: Excessive nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff is the most relevant cause of dead zones, as fertilizers used in agriculture often contain nitrogen and phosphorus, which can run off into water bodies.
Eliminate the incorrect options: Increased carbon dioxide emissions primarily contribute to global warming and ocean acidification, not directly to dead zones. Overfishing and oil spills, while harmful to marine ecosystems, are not the primary causes of hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico.
Conclude that the correct answer is 'Excessive nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff,' as it directly explains the formation of the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico.
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