How does sediment pollution affect water quality?

Sediment pollution plays a significant role in negatively impacting water quality by carrying abundant nutrients into waterways. When sediment is washed into rivers, lakes, or streams, it often transports fertilizers, manure, and other organic materials that have accumulated in the soil. This influx of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, can lead to eutrophication, where excessive nutrient enrichment causes algal blooms. These blooms can deplete oxygen in the water, create dead zones, and harm aquatic life.

In contrast to the other options, which do not accurately describe the effects of sediment pollution: improving water taste or clarity is not a consequence of sediment pollution, and while sediment can influence temperature by affecting the physical characteristics of water bodies, it does not inherently increase water temperature. Thus, the assertion that sediment pollution carries abundant nutrients and affects water quality is accurate and highlights a critical environmental concern.