7–10% of the AP exam. Key topics: Point source vs. nonpoint source pollution, Ecosystem impacts of pollutants on aquatic and terrestrial systems, Endocrine disruptors and their effects on wildlife and humans, Wetland and mangrove destruction: causes and consequences, Eutrophication: nutrient loading, algal blooms, hypoxic dead zones, Thermal pollution and its effects on dissolved oxygen levels, Persistent organic pollutants (POPs): DDT, PCBs, dioxins, Bioaccumulation (concentration increase within a single organism), Biomagnification (concentration increase up the food chain), Solid waste management: landfills, incineration, recycling, composting, Sewage treatment: primary, secondary, and tertiary processes, Toxicology: LD50 interpretation and dose-response relationships, Pathogens and waterborne diseases.
Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.
