Which of the following orders correctly represents the trend in eutrophication?
Answer Details
The correct order that represents the trend in eutrophication is excess nitrates and phosphates → massive algal growth → lack of oxygen → death of aquatic organisms.
Excess nitrates and phosphates are nutrients that promote the growth of aquatic plants and algae. When these nutrients are present in excess, they can cause a rapid increase in the growth of algae, leading to a phenomenon called "algal bloom." As the algae die and decompose, bacteria consume large amounts of oxygen, leading to a reduction in the oxygen levels in the water. This can result in the death of aquatic organisms, such as fish and invertebrates, that require oxygen to survive. Therefore, the correct order of events in eutrophication is excess nitrates and phosphates → massive algal growth → lack of oxygen → death of aquatic organisms.