How does turbidity affect water quality?

Turbidity is a measure of how clear water is and is primarily caused by suspended particles such as sediments, algae, and microorganisms. When turbidity is high, it indicates that there are a significant number of these particles present in the water. This condition can have multiple adverse effects on water quality.

One of the crucial impacts of turbidity is its role in harboring pathogens. Suspended particles can provide surfaces for bacteria and viruses to cling to, leading to an increase in the presence of harmful microorganisms. This poses health risks to humans and animals who come into contact with or consume the contaminated water.

Additionally, elevated turbidity reduces light penetration in the water column. Aquatic plants, which rely on photosynthesis, may struggle to get enough light to survive, ultimately affecting the entire ecosystem. Reduced light can hinder plant growth, which in turn affects oxygen production and can disrupt food chains, impacting various aquatic organisms.

Collectively, these factors demonstrate how turbidity can compromise the overall quality of water, making option B the most accurate choice regarding its effects.