A source of water pollution that originates from a broad area, such as agricultural chemicals applied to fields or acid rain. See point source. A measure of the relative acidity or alkalinity of water. A plant whose roots generally extend downward to the water table which customarily feeds on the capillary fringe. Phreatophytes are common in riparian habitats.
Term literally means water-loving plants.
Primary treatment Is a physical process in which the sewage flow is slowed down in settling tanks or lagoons. Floatable solids, oil and grease are usually skimmed off the surface before the remaining effluent is discharged into a waterbody. A source of water pollution that originates from a single point, such as an outflow pipe from a factory. See non-point source. See also artificial recharge, incidental recharge, natural recharge.