10
QuizMultiple Choice

Environmental Issues in Washington

Question 10 • WA-Washington State History (HS)

Which best describes how storm water runoff pollutes Puget Sound?

Answer
A
Rain washes garbage into Puget Sound, which can poison and kill marine animals.
B
Pollutants that build up in the air over populated cities wash into Puget Sound when it rains.
C
Rain washes pollutants off streets and into storm drains, which drain into Puget Sound.
D
Polluted water washed into storm drains by rain is treated and drained into Puget Sound.

Explanation

Storm water runoff flows over streets and other surfaces, picking up pollutants such as oil, chemicals, and litter. It then enters storm drains, which can carry it directly into Puget Sound without treatment. Choice C describes this process; choice D is incorrect because storm water is generally not treated before it reaches the Sound.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.