Why would a biologist want to know the pH of a lake?

What would be the expected pH value for a normal, healthy lake?
What could be a possible outcome if the lake pH was too high or too low?
What could cause a large change in a lake’s pH?

Please help! I need to get this done no later than today!

I remember these type of Qs from chem class

Why would a biologist want to know the pH of a lake?

To determine the acidity of it (helps determine what can live in the lake)

What would be the expected pH value for a normal, healthy lake?
7 neutral or a bit acidic

What could be a possible outcome if the lake pH was too high or too low?
loss of inhabitants (fish will die insects...)

What could cause a large change in a lake’s pH?
Acid rain, chem spill

Thank you so much! You're a lifesaver!!

A biologist may want to know the pH of a lake for several reasons. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, and it can provide important information about the water quality and the health of the lake's ecosystem. Here's how you can find the answers to your questions:

1. Why would a biologist want to know the pH of a lake?
To find the reasons why a biologist would want to know the pH of a lake, you can start by researching the factors that affect water quality and the health of aquatic ecosystems. Look for information on how pH levels can impact the survival and reproduction of various organisms in the lake, such as fish, algae, and aquatic plants. This will help you understand why monitoring pH is important for biologists studying aquatic environments.

2. What would be the expected pH value for a normal, healthy lake?
The expected pH value for a normal, healthy lake can vary depending on factors such as geology, vegetation, and human activities in the area. You can consult scientific literature, environmental reports, or online databases to find pH range values typically associated with healthy lakes in your specific region or similar environments. Typically, pH values between 6.5 and 8.5 are considered within the normal range for freshwater bodies.

3. What could be a possible outcome if the lake pH was too high or too low?
To understand the possible outcomes of high or low pH in a lake, you can research the effects of acidic or alkaline conditions on aquatic organisms and ecological processes. Acidic conditions (low pH) can harm fish, amphibians, and other aquatic organisms, while alkaline conditions (high pH) can lead to the loss of sensitive species and promote the growth of harmful algal blooms. Look for information on how pH changes can impact factors like nutrient availability, species composition, and overall ecosystem functioning.

4. What could cause a large change in a lake’s pH?
A variety of factors can cause a large change in a lake's pH. Some potential causes include acid rain, industrial or agricultural pollution, organic matter decomposition, and nutrient imbalances. To understand the specific causes of pH changes in lakes, consult scientific literature, environmental studies, or reports on water quality in your area. These sources should outline the various natural and human-induced processes that can influence pH levels in aquatic ecosystems.

Remember, it's important to properly cite and reference any sources you use while researching these questions. Good luck with your assignment!