2.9. Future Topics on Box Models

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the definition of concentration in environmental science?

   Hint

   Think about the substance's density in the water.

2. 2.

   Describe what a mass balance equation encompasses.

   Hint

   Consider the balance of what goes in and out.

3. 3.

   What does the term 'mass balance' refer to?

   • A measurement of pollutant concentration
   • An accounting of all inputs and outputs in a system
   • A law of conservation of mass

   Hint

   Think about what needs to be accounted for in a closed system.

4. 4.

   True or False: A box model assumes uniform concentration in all sections of the system.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how the mixing is treated in models.

5. 5.

   A river receives wastewater from a factory at a constant rate. If the concentration of pollutants in the outflow is expected to exceed environmental standards due to accumulation, how would you apply a box model to recommend actions?

   Hint

   Think about what elements need to be accounted for in each box.

6. 6.

   You are tasked with designing a box model for a lake undergoing seasonal changes in evaporation rates. Describe the parameters you would include and how they would affect the pollutant concentration.

   Hint

   Consider how seasonal weather impacts evaporation and inflow.