Water from nearby rivers or lakes is usually used to cool down the reactors in nuclear power plants. How would the release of this heated water back into the river or lake most likely affect the stability of the aquatic ecosystems?

Question

Water from nearby rivers or lakes is usually used to cool down the reactors in nuclear power plants. How would the release of this heated water back into the river or lake most likely affect the stability of the aquatic ecosystems?

The Effects of Sewage on Aquatic Ecosystems | Sciencing

a
It would decrease the amount of sunlight necessary for photosynthesis in the water.
b
It would cause an increase in the sewage content in the water.
c
It would cause a change in the biodiversity in the water.
d
It would change the number of mutations in plants growing near the water.

Answer 1

The correct answer is c. It would cause a change in the biodiversity in the water. The release of heated water into a river or lake can disrupt the natural ecosystem by affecting the temperature, oxygen levels, and nutrient levels in the water. This can lead to changes in the types of organisms that can survive in the water, which can in turn impact the overall biodiversity of the aquatic ecosystem.