Which statement best evaluates the impact of dredging on
the physical environment? (1 point)
Dredging causes the natural build-up of sediment.
Dredging stops the natural build-up of sediment.
Dredging causes habitat fragmentation.
Dredging causes natural changes in the shape of
waterbodies.
Dredging causes natural changes in the shape of waterbodies.
The statement that best evaluates the impact of dredging on the physical environment is:
"Dredging causes natural changes in the shape of water bodies."
To evaluate the impact of dredging on the physical environment, we need to understand the effects it has. In this case, we are primarily concerned with how dredging affects sediment build-up, habitat fragmentation, and the shape of waterbodies.
To evaluate each statement:
1. "Dredging causes the natural build-up of sediment" - This statement is incorrect. Dredging involves the removal of sediment from the bottom of water bodies, not the accumulation of sediment.
2. "Dredging stops the natural build-up of sediment" - This statement is correct. Dredging removes accumulated sediment, preventing its natural build-up in water bodies.
3. "Dredging causes habitat fragmentation" - While dredging can disrupt habitat in the short term, especially for species that rely on the bottom or nearshore areas, it does not inherently cause habitat fragmentation. Therefore, this statement is not the best evaluation of the impact of dredging on the physical environment.
4. "Dredging causes natural changes in the shape of water bodies" - This statement is correct. Dredging alters the shape and depth of water bodies by removing sediment and changing the contours of the bottom. Thus, it can cause natural changes in the shape of waterbodies.
Considering the statements mentioned, the best evaluation of the impact of dredging on the physical environment would be "Dredging stops the natural build-up of sediment," as it accurately reflects one of the key effects of dredging.