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Multiple Choice
Which of the following organic chemistry reactions is primarily responsible for the formation of 'dead zones' in aquatic environments due to nutrient runoff?
A
Hydrolysis
B
Eutrophication
C
Nitrification
D
Oxidation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of 'dead zones': These are areas in aquatic environments with low oxygen levels, often caused by excessive nutrient pollution, leading to the death of marine life.
Identify the process of eutrophication: Eutrophication is the enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, which leads to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants.
Recognize the role of nutrient runoff: Nutrient runoff from agricultural lands and urban areas contributes to eutrophication by introducing high levels of nutrients into water bodies.
Connect eutrophication to 'dead zones': The excessive growth of algae due to eutrophication eventually leads to oxygen depletion as the algae die and decompose, creating 'dead zones'.
Differentiate between the given reactions: Hydrolysis, nitrification, and oxidation are chemical processes, but eutrophication is the ecological process directly linked to the formation of 'dead zones'.