5.1 The Nature of Pollution
5.1.1 Define the term pollution.
Pollution - is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that cause adverse change. Pollution can take the form of chemical substances or energy, such as noise, heat or light.
5.1.2 Distinguish between the terms point source pollution and non- point source pollution, and outline the challenges they present for management.
NON POINT POLLUTION SOURCES
Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution refers to both water and air pollution from different sources. Nonpoint source water pollution affects a water body from sources such as polluted runoff from agricultural areas draining into a river, or wind-borne debris blowing out to sea. Nonpoint source air pollution affects air quality from sources such as smokestacks or car tailpipes. NPS may derive from many different sources with no specific solution to rectify the problem, making it difficult to regulate. It is the leading cause of water pollution in the Unites States today, with polluted runoff from agriculture the primary cause. |
POINT POLLUTION SOURCES
A point source of pollution is a single identifiable source of air, water, thermal, noise or light pollution. They include:
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5.1.3 State the major sources of pollutants.