Phosphorus Quiz

Use the information you've learned about phosphorus to answer the following ten multiple-choice questions. Good luck!

1. 1. Plants use the phosphorus found in...
   1. air
   2. water
   3. rocks
   4. bones

2. Trace amounts of dissolved phosphorus are measured in...
   1. percent
   2. mg/L
   3. grams
   4. mL

3. Phosphorus is the major ingredient used in...
   1. photosynthesis
   2. protein synthesis
   3. cellular respiration
   4. bones and teeth

4. The organism that keeps the phosphorus cycle operating is...
   1. fish
   2. bacteria
   3. algae
   4. snails

5. A good level of dissolved phosphorus (mg/L) in rivers is...
   1. 0.01 - 0.05
   2. 0.05 - 1.0
   3. 1.0 - 5.0
   4. 5.0 - 10.0

6. A major cause of high phosphorus levels in rivers is...
   1. mixing and splashing water
   2. increased temperature
   3. daytime photosynthesis by green plants and algae
   4. inadequately treated sewage wastewater

7. The harmful effects of phosphorus pollution occur in combination with...
   1. oxygen
   2. nitrogen
   3. high turbidity
   4. low temperatures

8. One effect of high dissolved phosphorus levels in a river is...
   1. high flow rates
   2. high turbidity
   3. the excessive growth of aquatic plants and algae
   4. better water quality

9. During a test for orthophosphate, the final blue colour is observed with...
   1. titration
   2. a colour comparator
   3. litmus paper
   4. a microscope

10. Which of the following procedures would give the most accurate orthophosphate test results?
    1. Wait until the floc settles
    2. Wash all glassware with detergent
    3. Wait 8 but no more than 10 minutes before viewing in a colour comparator
    4. Count the number of drops added until the final solution becomes clear.