Water pollution

Science

Definition

The contamination of water bodies (rivers, lakes, oceans, groundwater) by harmful substances that degrade water quality and harm aquatic ecosystems. Sources include industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, sewage, and improper waste disposal.

Examples

  • Fertilizer runoff causing algal blooms and dead zones in the Gulf of Mexico
  • Industrial chemicals like PFAS contaminating drinking water supplies near manufacturing plants
  • Oil spills like the Deepwater Horizon disaster devastating marine ecosystems in the Gulf

Related Terms

Water management Groundwater Ocean acidification Acid rain

Study This Concept

Practice water pollution with free review games in these units:

AP Environmental Science Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution