AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Excess nitrogen and phosphorus generate algae blooms, which result in an overgrowth of algae in a short period of time. Overgrowth of algae depletes oxygen and prevents sunlight from reaching submerged plants.

Detailed explanation-2: -Dead zones are generally caused by significant nutrient pollution, and are primarily a problem for bays, lakes and coastal waters since they receive excess nutrients from upstream sources. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus cause an overgrowth of algae in a short period of time, also called algae blooms.

Detailed explanation-3: -They are most commonly caused by dinoflagellates or diatoms but can also be caused by cyanobacteria. Blooms can occur in brackish waters in the United States, including estuaries and coastal waters. Blooms in brackish water are most commonly caused by dinoflagellates or diatoms but can also be caused by cyanobacteria.

Detailed explanation-4: -Algae blooms can occur when a combination of suitable environmental conditions exist for abundant algal growth (e.g., increased nutrients, warmer temperature, abundant light, and stable wind conditions).

Detailed explanation-5: -When there are excessive amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the water, algae can bloom to harmful levels. Dead zones form when the algae die, sink to the bottom, and are decomposed by bacteria-a process that strips dissolved oxygen from the surrounding water.