Oklahoma Applicators License Core Practice Exam

Which chemical characteristics can affect groundwater contamination?

1. Viscosity and pH levels

2. Solubility and degradation rate

3. Color and odor

4. Cost and availability

The correct answer is: Solubility and degradation rate

Groundwater contamination can be significantly influenced by solubility and degradation rate of chemicals. Solubility refers to how easily a substance can dissolve in water; chemicals that are highly soluble can easily move through soil and into the groundwater, increasing the risk of contamination. For example, if a pesticide or nutrient dissolves in rainfall and then percolates through the soil, it can reach and affect groundwater supplies. The degradation rate, on the other hand, describes how quickly a substance breaks down in the environment. Chemicals that degrade quickly might pose a lesser threat to groundwater since they can be broken down before they have a chance to reach and affect the water supply. Conversely, substances that degrade slowly can linger in the environment for extended periods of time, leading to sustained contamination. This understanding is critical for effective management and regulation of chemicals used in agriculture, industrial processes, and other applications to help safeguard groundwater resources from potential pollutants.