To test acidity levels of water, scientists test pH. As acid rain falls, the pH level of the water in lakes and streams decreases. While certain animals can tolerate low pH levels, others are extremely sensitive to the effects of acid rain and cannot live under these conditions. Candice is working on a project to determine whether acid rain is causing a decrease in the number of bass and mayflies in a lake in her hometown. Candice takes a sample of the pH level of the lake, and she finds that the pH level is 5.4. What might Candice predict as a result of her findings?
Based on the pH level of the lake being 5.4, which is lower than the optimal pH range for many aquatic life forms, Candice may predict that acid rain is causing a decrease in the number of bass and mayflies in the lake. The low pH level could be hindering the survival and reproduction of these sensitive species, leading to a decline in their populations. Candice's findings suggest that the lake may be experiencing the harmful effects of acid rain, which could have serious consequences for the ecosystem. Further research and monitoring may be needed to confirm and address the impact of acid rain on the lake's biodiversity.
