Which factors affect surface water quality?

Surface water quality is significantly influenced by various factors, with the location and sources of pollution being paramount. The location determines what types of contaminants might enter the water body, as different areas may be subjected to various human activities or natural phenomena that introduce pollutants. For instance, urban run-off can carry oil, heavy metals, and other pollutants from roads directly into nearby rivers and lakes.

Furthermore, the sources of pollution—such as agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and wastewater effluents—have a direct impact on the quality of surface water. These sources introduce a variety of harmful substances, including nutrients that can lead to eutrophication, pathogens that pose public health risks, and toxic chemicals that can harm aquatic life.

While temperature, sediment levels, fish populations, aquatic plants, seasonal patterns, and wind speed may also influence certain aspects of water quality, they do not directly relate to the causes of pollution as strongly as the location and sources of contamination do. Therefore, understanding the location and pollution sources is crucial for managing and protecting surface water quality effectively.