To test acidity levels of water, scientists test pH. As acid rain falls, the pH level of the water in lakes and streams decreases. While certain animals can tolerate low pH levels, others are extremely sensitive to the effects of acid rain and cannot live under these conditions. Candice is working on a project to determine whether acid rain is causing a decrease in the number of bass and mayflies in a lake in her hometown. Candice takes a sample of the pH level of the lake, and she finds that the pH level is 5.4. What might Candice predict as a result of her findings? Responses A The lake's pH level of 5.4 is safe for both bass and mayflies, but not for frogs.The lake's pH level of 5.4 is safe for both bass and mayflies, but not for frogs. B The lake's pH level of 5.4 will cause a decrease in the amount of bass and mayflies.The lake's pH level of 5.4 will cause a decrease in the amount of bass and mayflies. C The lake's pH level of 5.4 will affect the number of bass, but probably not the mayflies.The lake's pH level of 5.4 will affect the number of bass, but probably not the mayflies. D The lake's pH level of 5.4 will not affect the survival of any of the animals listed in the chart.
1 answer
Based on the information provided that certain animals are sensitive to low pH levels, it can be inferred that a pH of 5.4 is likely not optimal for species such as bass and mayflies, which are known to be affected by acidity in water. Therefore, the most appropriate prediction Candice can make, considering the potential harmful effects of such a low pH level on these species, would be:
B The lake's pH level of 5.4 will cause a decrease in the amount of bass and mayflies.
