How does eutrophication work?

  1. Fertilisers containing nitrogen are washed from fields to rivers and ponds. 2. This effectively fertilises the algae in the pond causing an 'algal bloom'. 3. The layer of algae on the surface stops sunlight from getting to the plants below. This means they cannot photosynthesize to produce oxgen.4. The plants die which further depletes the oxgen in the water as the bacteria decomposing them use oxygen. 5. The low oxygen levels cause fish and other organims in the water to die. 
IH
Answered by Iona H. Biology tutor

4570 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Over-watering a plant can result in the soil around a plant's roots becoming saturated with water, reducing the amount of oxygen available to the roots. Using your knowledge of aerobic and anaerobic respiration, explain how over-watering can kill a plant.


How does water play a vital role in sustaining life?


What is the role of calcium in synaptic transmission?


How do muscle fibres contract?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning