Question

How does temperature affect the solubility of \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) in water? Explain what is meant by thermal pollution.

Short answer

As temperature increases, the solubility of O_2 in water decreases; thermal pollution refers to increased water temperatures reducing O_2 solubility adversely affecting aquatic life.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Solubility

Solubility refers to the ability of a solute, in this case, oxygen ( O_2), to dissolve in a solvent, water, at a particular temperature. Solubility can be influenced by temperature changes.

Recognize the Relationship Between Temperature and Gas Solubility

Typically, the solubility of gases, such as O_2, in liquids decreases as temperature increases. This means that warmer water holds less O_2 than cooler water.

Explain Thermal Pollution

Thermal pollution occurs when there is a significant increase in the water temperature due to human activities, such as discharging warm water from industrial processes. This rise in temperature reduces the solubility of O_2 in the water, adversely affecting aquatic life relying on oxygen.

Key concepts

Temperature and Gas Solubility

When we talk about solubility, we refer to the capacity of a substance (solute) to dissolve in a liquid (solvent). In the context of water and oxygen, temperature plays a key role in impacting this solubility.

Generally, as the temperature of the water increases, the solubility of gases like oxygen decreases. Why does this happen? Warmer temperatures cause water molecules to move more rapidly, which gives the dissolved gas molecules more energy to escape into the atmosphere. This means that in warm water, there's less available oxygen for organisms to utilize.

Consider how cool beverages tend to release more bubbles when they warm up. Similarly, less oxygen remains dissolved in water as it warms, altering the living conditions for many aquatic creatures.

• High temperatures = less oxygen dissolved.
• Low temperatures = more oxygen dissolved.

Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing the challenges aquatic ecosystems face as environmental temperatures fluctuate.

Thermal Pollution

Thermal pollution is an environmental phenomenon that can severely impact water ecosystems. It occurs primarily due to human activities.

Industries like power plants and factories often use water from natural sources to cool machinery. After usage, the warmer water is returned to its source, increasing the overall water temperature. This hotter water leads to several ecological repercussions.

A significant effect is the reduced solubility of oxygen, critical for the survival of aquatic species.

• Warmer water discharged = increased water temperature.
• Lowers oxygen solubility in water bodies.
• Threatens the balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Consequently, thermal pollution contributes to oxygen depletion, making it harder for fish and other organisms to survive. Preventing thermal pollution is essential for maintaining healthy aquatic habitats.

Effect on Aquatic Life

Aquatic life is profoundly affected by changes in water temperature and oxygen levels. Many aquatic species depend on dissolved oxygen for their survival.

When thermal pollution increases water temperature, it lowers oxygen solubility, creating an environment where oxygen levels can drop to critical lows. Fish and other aquatic life may struggle to breathe or even succumb to these stressful conditions.

Additionally, changes in temperature can alter metabolism rates in aquatic animals. While some species may tolerate fluctuations, others may not, leading to shifts in population dynamics.

• Oxygen availability is crucial for survival.
• Temperature changes impact metabolism and health.
• Unsustainable temperatures can lead to habitat loss.

Understanding these impacts is vital for protecting aquatic ecosystems and ensuring balanced biodiversity amidst environmental changes.