Final answer:
The term representing the source of the pollutant cycle is 'd) Source'. Point and nonpoint sources are the two main categories where pollutants originate, leading to environmental concerns like eutrophication and ocean acidification.
Step-by-step explanation:
Three of the following are part of the population problem and together they represent the pollutant cycle. Which term represents the source of the problem?
The answer is d) Source. The source of pollutants is where the pollutants originate from, which then become part of the cycle and may end up in different environmental 'sinks.'
Sources can be divided into two main categories:
point sources and nonpoint sources. Point sources of pollution are identifiable and concentrated, like pipes from factories or sewage treatment plants.
On the other hand, nonpoint sources are diffuse and widespread, such as runoff from agricultural areas. When these pollutants enter various water reservoirs, they lead to issues like eutrophication and ocean acidification, threatening aquatic life.