Fish “breathe” the oxygen gas that is dissolved in water. Sometimes, their habitat is exposed to thermal pollution when warm water is released from local power plants.

Question

What is the effect of the increased temperature of the water on their ability to breathe?

It is harmful because there is more dissolved oxygen in the water.

It is harmful because there is less dissolved oxygen in the water.

There is no effect on the fish.

It is beneficial to the fish because the water is warmer.

Answer 1

The correct answer is: It is harmful because there is less dissolved oxygen in the water.

As water temperature increases, the solubility of oxygen in water decreases. This means that warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen, which can make it more difficult for fish to "breathe" and obtain the oxygen they need to survive. Therefore, thermal pollution from power plants can create a harmful environment for fish and other aquatic life.