What does an increase in temperature typically do to dissolved oxygen levels in water?

Prepare for the Water Works Service Worker Exam with interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Enhance your skills with detailed explanations and hints for every question. Ace your exam with confidence!

An increase in temperature typically leads to a decrease in dissolved oxygen levels in water. This phenomenon is primarily due to the fact that warmer water holds less oxygen than colder water. As the temperature rises, the kinetic energy of water molecules increases, causing the dissolved oxygen to escape into the atmosphere more readily. Consequently, aquatic life that relies on oxygen for respiration can be negatively impacted, especially during warm periods or heatwaves.

While the other options suggest various effects on dissolved oxygen levels, they do not reflect the established scientific principle regarding temperature's influence on gas solubility in water. Understanding this relationship is critical for water quality management and the health of aquatic ecosystems.

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