Groundwater Can Be Contaminated by Bacteria and Other Pathogens That

question 127

Multiple Choice

Groundwater can be contaminated by bacteria and other pathogens that seep from septic tanks, broken sewer lines, and barnyard wastes. In many instances, however, this is not a serious health problem even in the presence of a large population. Why?

• A)Without sunlight, the pathogens generally die out.
• B)Most municipalities have alert systems to warn people of an outbreak.
• C)The soil itself may serve to filter out the pathogens.
• D)The diseases spread by these pathogens are not typically contagious.

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Definitions:

Poisonous Gas

Gaseous substances that are harmful or fatal to living organisms when inhaled or absorbed.

Controlling Emissions

The practice of regulating and reducing the release of pollutants or greenhouse gases into the atmosphere from various sources.

Stricter Standards

More rigorous and demanding criteria or rules that must be met, often applied to improve quality, safety, environmental protection, or efficiency.

Taxing Polluters

Imposing financial charges on individuals or companies who release pollutants into the environment, aiming to reduce environmental harm.