Which term describes water quality degradation due to large amounts of sediment suspended?

Which term describes water quality degradation due to large amounts of sediment suspended?

• A. Sediment pollution
• B. Nutrient pollution
• C. Pathogens
• D. Eutrophication

Answer: (A)

Sediment pollution is water quality degradation caused by large amounts of sediment suspended in the water, which increases turbidity and can smother habitats, reduce light for photosynthesis, and transport attached pollutants. The description in the question focuses on suspended particles, so this term directly captures the issue. Nutrient pollution, by contrast, refers to excess nutrients fueling algal blooms and carries the risk of eutrophication, not primarily suspended sediment. Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms, and eutrophication is the nutrient-driven process leading to overgrowth of algae and oxygen depletion; neither centers on suspended sediment.

Sediment pollution is water quality degradation caused by large amounts of sediment suspended in the water, which increases turbidity and can smother habitats, reduce light for photosynthesis, and transport attached pollutants. The description in the question focuses on suspended particles, so this term directly captures the issue.

Nutrient pollution, by contrast, refers to excess nutrients fueling algal blooms and carries the risk of eutrophication, not primarily suspended sediment. Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms, and eutrophication is the nutrient-driven process leading to overgrowth of algae and oxygen depletion; neither centers on suspended sediment.