Final answer:
The pH data for the two lakes indicates variations in water quality, with one lake being acidic and the other neutral or alkaline. Acidic water can be harmful to aquatic life and may indicate pollution or acid rain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pH of a solution is a measure of its acidity or alkalinity. Acids have a pH less than 7, while bases have a pH greater than 7. Based on the given pH data, we can determine the effects on water quality in the two lakes:
- Lake A: pH = 4.5; Lake B: pH = 7.5
Lake A is acidic (pH < 7), while Lake B is neutral (pH = 7). Acidic water can be detrimental to aquatic life and may indicate pollution or acid rain in Lake A. - Lake A: pH = 8.3; Lake B: pH = 3.7
Lake A is alkaline (pH > 7), while Lake B is acidic (pH < 7). Alkaline water can support a healthy ecosystem, while acidic water can be harmful to aquatic life.
Therefore, the expected pH data shows variations in the water quality of the two lakes, with the acidic lake potentially facing more challenges in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.