Question

Eutrophication refers to an aging process from a

• A. low production ecosystem to high production ecosystem due to availability of excess nutrients
• B. high production ecosystem to low production ecosystem due to nutrient deficiency
• C. high production ecosystem to low production ecosystem due to light scarcity
• D. low production ecosystem to high production ecosystem due to light scarcity

Hint:

Eutrophication is often caused by excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which stimulate the overgrowth of algae and other aquatic plants.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding eutrophication.
Eutrophication is the process by which an ecosystem, typically a water body, becomes overly enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae. This process is often caused by the overuse of fertilizers and sewage, which increase nutrient levels in the water.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) low production ecosystem to high production ecosystem due to availability of excess nutrients: Correct — Eutrophication leads to an increase in biological productivity (algal blooms) due to the overabundance of nutrients.
(B) high production ecosystem to low production ecosystem due to nutrient deficiency: Incorrect — This describes a process opposite to eutrophication.
(C) high production ecosystem to low production ecosystem due to light scarcity: Incorrect — Light scarcity could affect primary production but is not the main cause of eutrophication.
(D) low production ecosystem to high production ecosystem due to light scarcity: Incorrect — Eutrophication is driven by nutrient enrichment, not light scarcity.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) low production ecosystem to high production ecosystem due to availability of excess nutrients.