Which of the following is the BEST explanation for surface water and groundwater pollution?
A. wells drilled in agricultural, industrial, and residential areas
B. power use from agricultural, industrial, and residential areas
C. runoff from agricultural, industrial, and residential areas
D. drip irrigation from agricultural, industrial, and residential areas
C. runoff from agricultural, industrial, and residential areas
Runoff from agricultural, industrial, and residential areas can contain pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, chemicals, and waste products that can contaminate surface water and groundwater. This is a common source of pollution that can have significant impacts on water quality. Wells, power use, and drip irrigation may also contribute to pollution, but runoff is typically the primary mechanism through which pollutants enter water sources.