NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Nitrates are a form of nitrogen, which is found in several different forms in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. These forms of nitrogen include ammonia (NH3), nitrates (NO3), and nitrites (NO2). Nitrates are essential plant nutrients, but in excess amounts they can cause significant water quality problems.

Detailed explanation-2: -Problems with excess levels of nitrogen in the environment Excess nitrogen can cause overstimulation of growth of aquatic plants and algae. Excessive growth of these organisms, in turn, can clog water intakes, use up dissolved oxygen as they decompose, and block light to deeper waters.

Detailed explanation-3: -Beneath agricultural lands, nitrate is the primary form of nitrogen. It is soluble in water and can easily pass through soil to the ground-water table. Nitrate can persist in ground water for decades and accumulate to high levels as more nitrogen is applied to the land surface every year.

Detailed explanation-4: -Nitrates in groundwater originate from a number of non-point sources, including geological origins, septic tanks, improper use of animal manures, cultivation (especially fallowing) precipitation, and fertilizers. Accumulation of nitrate N in groundwater is probably attributed to different sources for different regions.

Detailed explanation-5: -Drinking water with concentrations of nitrate above 10 mg/L can cause immediate health problems. If nitrate is detected in your water at concentrations above 10 mg/L, follow these steps: Get your drinking water from a safe alternative source, such as bottled water.