Eutrophication Cascade Simulator

MS-ESS3-3: How nutrients create dead zones

How to Use This Simulation
  1. Adjust the controls to change simulation variables
  2. Click Start to run Eutrophication Cascade Simulator
  3. Observe the results in the display area
  4. Click Reset to try different settings
  5. Complete the Predict-Observe-Explain section below

Keyboard: Space/Enter = start/pause · R = reset · Esc = pause

How to Use This Simulation

  1. Adjust the Nutrient Input slider to set fertilizer runoff levels
  2. Click "Play" to watch the eutrophication cascade unfold over time
  3. Observe: nutrients enter water, algae blooms, algae dies, bacteria consume oxygen, fish die
  4. Watch the graphs track algae population, dissolved oxygen, and fish population
  5. Try different nutrient levels to see how input affects dead zone formation

Current Stage: Healthy Lake

Normal nutrient levels, balanced ecosystem

1x
1x = Normal, 5x = Heavy fertilizer runoff
Week: 0 / 24

Population & Oxygen Trends Over Time

Algae Population
Algae
Dissolved Oxygen
O₂ (mg/L)
Fish Population
Fish

Record Your Observations

As you explore Eutrophication Cascade, record what you notice:

  1. Starting conditions: What are the initial settings?
  2. Changes: What happens when you adjust the variables?
  3. Patterns: Do you notice any patterns or relationships?
  4. Evidence: What specific data supports your observations?

Predict • Observe • Explain

Predict

Before running the simulation, predict: what do you think will happen to Eutrophication Cascade when you change the variables?

Observe

Run the simulation with different settings. Record the patterns and relationships you see.

Explain

Compare your observations with your prediction. Use scientific vocabulary to explain why Eutrophication Cascade behaves this way.

Key Concepts

Variables

Changing one variable while controlling others helps us isolate cause and effect in Eutrophication Cascade.

Patterns

Look for repeatable patterns in the data — they reveal the underlying scientific principles.

Models

This simulation is a model — a simplified representation that helps us understand Eutrophication Cascade.