, ZOL2601 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 1
2026 - DUE 23 March 2026; ; 100% trusted, comprehensive and
complete reliable solution with clear explanation
Question 1 [8]
Various factors influence the amount of gas that can dissolve in
water. Name and briefly describe the direction of influence of the
four main such factors discussed in the learning material.
1. Temperature
Temperature has an inverse relationship with gas solubility in water. As
the water temperature increases, gas molecules gain kinetic energy and
move faster, which allows them to escape from the liquid more easily.
Consequently, warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen or other gases.
This is why oxygen levels are often lower in summer compared to
winter in lakes and rivers. Cold water, conversely, can hold more gas,
supporting aquatic life better in cooler seasons.
2. Pressure
Gas solubility is directly proportional to the pressure of the gas above
the liquid, as described by Henry’s Law. Higher atmospheric or partial
gas pressure forces more gas molecules into the water. For example, in
deep water or under high-pressure conditions, oxygen dissolves more
readily. Conversely, at high altitudes where atmospheric pressure is
lower, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreases. This explains why
aquatic life at high elevations may experience lower oxygen availability.
3. Salinity
2026 - DUE 23 March 2026; ; 100% trusted, comprehensive and
complete reliable solution with clear explanation
Question 1 [8]
Various factors influence the amount of gas that can dissolve in
water. Name and briefly describe the direction of influence of the
four main such factors discussed in the learning material.
1. Temperature
Temperature has an inverse relationship with gas solubility in water. As
the water temperature increases, gas molecules gain kinetic energy and
move faster, which allows them to escape from the liquid more easily.
Consequently, warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen or other gases.
This is why oxygen levels are often lower in summer compared to
winter in lakes and rivers. Cold water, conversely, can hold more gas,
supporting aquatic life better in cooler seasons.
2. Pressure
Gas solubility is directly proportional to the pressure of the gas above
the liquid, as described by Henry’s Law. Higher atmospheric or partial
gas pressure forces more gas molecules into the water. For example, in
deep water or under high-pressure conditions, oxygen dissolves more
readily. Conversely, at high altitudes where atmospheric pressure is
lower, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreases. This explains why
aquatic life at high elevations may experience lower oxygen availability.
3. Salinity
