Which of the following factors can degrade water quality?

Runoff from urban developments is a significant factor that can degrade water quality due to the introduction of various pollutants into nearby water bodies. Urbanization typically involves the alteration of natural landscapes, which can lead to increased surface runoff. This runoff can carry contaminants such as oil, heavy metals, chemicals from roads and buildings, fertilizers, and bacteria from pets and wildlife, all of which can impair water quality.

In contrast, factors like proper waste disposal, natural filtration through soil, and regular maintenance of water sources generally contribute to the maintenance or improvement of water quality. Proper waste disposal minimizes the risk of introducing harmful substances into the water supply, while natural filtration through soil can help remove pollutants before they reach groundwater. Regular maintenance ensures that water systems function effectively, preventing issues that could lead to contamination. Thus, understanding the impact of urban runoff is crucial foreffective water quality management.