15
QuizMultiple Choice

Lesson 8: Human Impact on the Environment

Question 15 • PT-GSE Environmental Science B-IC – 81

How does a whale fall community affect ocean sediment?

Answer
A
The decomposition of the whale enriches the sediment.
B
The remains of the whale pollute the sediment.
C
The sediment is transformed into food for mussels and crabs.
D
The bacteria that are attracted break down the sediment nearby.

Explanation

When a whale dies and sinks to the seafloor, its body decomposes and releases nutrients into the surrounding sediment. This enriches the sediment and supports organisms in the whale-fall community. The sediment itself is not transformed into food, as choice C suggests.

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