What are the main nutrients responsible for eutrophication?a.Magnesium and calcium.b.Carbon and oxygen.c.Iron and potassium.d.Nitrogen and phosphorus.

Step 1: Break Down the Problem

We need to identify which nutrients contribute to the process of eutrophication. Eutrophication is the excessive growth of algae in water bodies due to increased nutrient levels.

Step 2: Relevant Concepts

Eutrophication is primarily caused by an oversupply of certain nutrients, notably:

• Nitrogen (N): Often from fertilizers and runoff.
• Phosphorus (P): Comes from agricultural runoff, detergents, and wastewater.

Step 3: Analysis and Detail

• Magnesium and calcium: While they are essential nutrients for plants, they are not the primary culprits in eutrophication.
• Carbon and oxygen: These are fundamental elements in cellular respiration and photosynthesis, but not direct contributors to eutrophication.
• Iron and potassium: While they are important micronutrients, they are not the main drivers of eutrophication.
• Nitrogen and phosphorus: Both are key nutrients that lead to rapid algal blooms when present in excess.

Step 4: Verify and Summarize

Eutrophication is significantly linked to high concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients stimulate excessive algal growth, leading to negative environmental impacts like hypoxia (decreased oxygen levels) and biodiversity loss.

Final Answer

The main nutrients responsible for eutrophication are d. Nitrogen and phosphorus.