Problem 2 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

Nutrient runoff from fertilizing lush lawns often causes "al. gal blooms" in nearby lakes, making swimming impossible. The fertilizer components most likely to have caused the blooms are: a. iron, magnesium, and nitrogen. b. \(\quad\) nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. c. nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. d. selenium, magnesium, and potassium. e. nitrogen, magnesium, and nickel.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is b) nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur and c) nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. However, because sulfur and potassium are not major contributors to algal blooms, the best answer is c) nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus.

Step 1: Recall the Algal Bloom Theory

Remember that algal blooms are caused by a rapid increase or accumulation of algae in freshwater or marine water systems, usually as a result of an excess of nutrients. The two most common nutrients that contribute to this overgrowth are nitrogen and phosphorus.

Step 2: Analyze the Given Options

Looking at the given options, identify those that contain both nitrogen and phosphorus.

Step 3: Select the Correct Answer

The correct answer should contain both nitrogen and phosphorus as these are the key contributors to algal blooms according to the theory. In this case, the options containing both are b) Nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur and c) Nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. However, sulfur and potassium are not recognized as major contributors to algal blooms. Therefore, we can rule out these options.