Question

Which of the following is an example of non-point source pollution?

• A. Factory effluents
• B. Oil spills
• C. Agricultural runoff
• D. Industrial waste disposal

Hint:

Non-point source pollution comes from diffuse sources and is often associated with runoff from agriculture, urban areas, or land use changes.
In contrast, point source pollution comes from a specific, identifiable location such as a factory or waste disposal site.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Non-point source pollution refers to pollution that comes from multiple, diffuse sources rather than a single, identifiable source. This type of pollution is often difficult to control because it does not come from one specific location.
Step 1: Understand non-point source pollution
Non-point source pollution is typically associated with runoff from rainwater or melting snow that carries pollutants from agricultural, urban, or industrial areas into bodies of water.
Step 2: Analyze Option A - Factory effluents
Factory effluents are an example of point source pollution, as they come from a single, identifiable source such as a factory discharge pipe.
Thus, option A is incorrect.
Step 3: Analyze Option B - Oil spills
Oil spills are also considered point source pollution because they come from a specific, identifiable source such as a pipeline or tanker.
Thus, option B is incorrect.
Step 4: Analyze Option C - Agricultural runoff
Agricultural runoff is an example of non-point source pollution because it results from water running off agricultural fields, carrying pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals into nearby water bodies.
Thus, option C is correct.
Step 5: Analyze Option D - Industrial waste disposal
Industrial waste disposal typically refers to waste dumped by factories, which is usually point source pollution.
Thus, option D is incorrect.
Step 6: Conclusion
Agricultural runoff is a classic example of non-point source pollution. Therefore, the correct answer is option C.