Chemistry
Chemistry
10th Edition
ISBN: 9781305957404
Author: Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Publisher: Cengage Learning
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During hot summer months, high altitude lakes are more susceptible to "fish kills" (where all od the fish in the lakes die around the same time) than low altitude lakes. Given that fish require dissolved O2(g) to survive, which of the following could explain this phenomenon? 

### Understanding the Phenomenon of Fish Kills at High Altitude Lakes

**Question:**
During hot summer months, high altitude lakes are more susceptible to "fish kills" (where all of the fish in the lakes die around the same time) than low altitude lakes. Given that fish require dissolved \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) to survive, which of the following could explain this phenomenon?

* A) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is more soluble in water at high altitude.
* B) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is less soluble in water at high altitude.
* C) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is more soluble in water at high temperature.
* D) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is less soluble in water at high temperature.
* E) B and D

**Analysis:**
This problem addresses the solubility of oxygen in water and its relation to the conditions that might cause fish kills. The key factors considered include altitude and temperature, both of which can significantly affect the solubility of gases in water.

#### High Altitude:
High altitude often means lower atmospheric pressure, which generally reduces the solubility of gases in water (Option B). Therefore, less dissolved oxygen would be available for fish, which could be crucial during the warmer months when the metabolic demand for oxygen increases.

#### High Temperature:
As water temperature rises, the solubility of oxygen decreases (Option D). Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen, further stressing aquatic life, especially in high-altitude lakes where oxygen levels are already low.

**Conclusion:**
Both the factors detailed in Option B and Option D are correct, leading us to the correct answer:

**Correct Answer: E) B and D**

Understanding the various elements that affect the solubility of oxygen in water helps explain why high altitude lakes may see more fish kills in the summer. This scenario underscores the importance of studying environmental science and ecology to better protect aquatic ecosystems.
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Transcribed Image Text:### Understanding the Phenomenon of Fish Kills at High Altitude Lakes **Question:** During hot summer months, high altitude lakes are more susceptible to "fish kills" (where all of the fish in the lakes die around the same time) than low altitude lakes. Given that fish require dissolved \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) to survive, which of the following could explain this phenomenon? * A) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is more soluble in water at high altitude. * B) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is less soluble in water at high altitude. * C) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is more soluble in water at high temperature. * D) \( \text{O}_2(\text{g}) \) is less soluble in water at high temperature. * E) B and D **Analysis:** This problem addresses the solubility of oxygen in water and its relation to the conditions that might cause fish kills. The key factors considered include altitude and temperature, both of which can significantly affect the solubility of gases in water. #### High Altitude: High altitude often means lower atmospheric pressure, which generally reduces the solubility of gases in water (Option B). Therefore, less dissolved oxygen would be available for fish, which could be crucial during the warmer months when the metabolic demand for oxygen increases. #### High Temperature: As water temperature rises, the solubility of oxygen decreases (Option D). Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen, further stressing aquatic life, especially in high-altitude lakes where oxygen levels are already low. **Conclusion:** Both the factors detailed in Option B and Option D are correct, leading us to the correct answer: **Correct Answer: E) B and D** Understanding the various elements that affect the solubility of oxygen in water helps explain why high altitude lakes may see more fish kills in the summer. This scenario underscores the importance of studying environmental science and ecology to better protect aquatic ecosystems.
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