Sample interview questions: How do you assess and monitor the impacts of heavy metal pollution on the growth and survival of freshwater algae?
Sample answer:
Assessment and Monitoring of Heavy Metal Impacts on Freshwater Algae
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Water Sample Collection: Collect water samples from affected areas and control sites to establish baseline conditions. Samples should be taken at multiple depths and time points to capture variations.
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Metal Concentration Analysis: Analyze water samples for the presence and concentration of heavy metals using techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.
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Algal Species Identification and Quantification: Collect algal samples from water bodies and identify the species present using microscopy or molecular techniques. Quantify the abundance of each species to determine any shifts in community structure.
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Growth Rate Measurements: Conduct laboratory experiments to assess the growth rates of selected algal species exposed to varying concentrations of heavy metals. Use methods such as cell counting, chlorophyll a measurements, or biomass determination.
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Survival Assays… Read full answer