Explanation
The correct answer is (b) the result of accumulation of plant nutrients in water bodies.
Eutrophication refers to the process in which water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, or coastal areas, become enriched with excessive nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients often come from human activities such as agriculture, wastewater discharges, or runoff from fertilized areas.
When these nutrients enter a water body, they stimulate the growth of algae and other aquatic plants. The increased plant growth is referred to as an algal bloom. As the plants die and decompose, the process of decomposition consumes oxygen, leading to oxygen depletion in the water. This oxygen depletion can harm fish and other aquatic organisms, leading to a decline in water quality and ecosystem health.
Eutrophication is generally considered a negative phenomenon because it can cause imbalances in aquatic ecosystems, leading to reduced biodiversity and ecological problems. It can result in the loss of oxygen-dependent species and the proliferation of harmful algal blooms, which can release toxins into the water.
Therefore, the correct answer is (b) the result of accumulation of plant nutrients in water bodies.
