Describe the effects of nitrogen and phosohorus fertiliser leaching into a lake

This will cause eutrophication. Under normal circumstances, nutrients are a limiting factor for algal growth. When the fertiliser leaches into the lake, the excess nutrients will therefore allow algae at the surface to grow and multiply rapidly in an algal bloom.The mass of alge block light from reaching the lake bed, preventing photosynthesis in the plants that grow there. Without the ability to photosynthesise, the plants die.The dead organic plant material is then decomposed by bacteria. The respiration of these bacteria uses up large quantities of oxygen, leaving too little to support large-bodied aquatic animals such as fish, which die off.

Answered by Alasdair R. Biology tutor

3205 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are dangerous diseases that can be fatal to children. The MMR vaccine is given to children at a young age to produce antibodies against these diseases. Describe how giving the vaccine leads to the production of antibodies.


What are the characteristic properties of the genetic code?


What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?


Describe and explain the process of saltatory conduction. Diagrams may be used.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences