Question

State the meaning of the term ‘water pollution’. State how you would find out, the different sources of pollution of water bodies in the locality.

Answer 1

Water pollution - It is an undesirable change in the chemical, physical & biological conditions of water due to the presence of foreign substances in water. It leads to degrading the quality of water & makes it unsuitable for its designated use.

The main sources of pollution of water bodies in the locality are —

1. Household detergents
2. Sewage waste

Sources of water pollution in the locality:

1. HOUSEHOLD DETERGENTS: They are household chemical cleaning organic compounds used for laundering & dish washing. They contain phosphates mainly sodium triphosphate. Phosphates are a major source of water pollution. Nutrients are added to the water in the form of nitrogen, carbon & phosphorus – generally from sewage.
2. DOMESTIC SEWAGE: It is waste water generated from household activities, (sewage also includes liquid waste industry and commerce)
   Domestic sewage water contains Organic materials & inorganic materials such as phosphates & nitrates.
   Organic from food & vegetables & inorganic from soaps & detergents.