Why Is It Probably Not a Good Idea to Drink

question 6

Essay

Why is it probably not a good idea to drink water directly from a mountain stream (i.e., untreated) even if it appears to be unaffected by human activities?

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Definitions:

Vascular Bundles

Structures in plants that contain xylem and phloem tissues, responsible for the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars.

Monocot

Refers to monocotyledons, a group of flowering plants that possess one embryonic leaf or cotyledon in their seeds.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of cells in plants and animals, serving as a protective barrier against environmental damage.

Cuticle

A protective and waterproof outer layer of a plant or arthropod, composed of organic material and often preventing water loss.