Explain why: Factory waste is neutralized before disposing it into the water bodies.

Factory waste is neutralized before being discharged into water bodies for several important reasons:

1. pH Regulation: Factory effluents can contain acidic or basic components, disrupting the natural pH balance of water bodies. Neutralizing these effluents helps maintain a near-neutral pH (around 7), minimizing adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems. Extreme pH levels can harm aquatic organisms and upset the water ecosystem’s balance.

2. Toxicity Reduction: Industrial waste often contains harmful substances like heavy metals and toxins. Neutralization processes alter or precipitate these substances, decreasing their toxicity. This step reduces the harmful impact of the waste on water bodies and aquatic life.

3. Regulatory Compliance: Environmental regulations set specific limits for acidity or alkalinity levels in discharged water. Neutralizing factory waste ensures compliance with these standards before release into water bodies, meeting acceptable environmental criteria.

4. Aquatic Life Protection: By balancing pH levels and minimizing toxic components in wastewater, neutralization safeguards aquatic habitats. This protection is crucial for preserving the health and diversity of aquatic plants and animals.

5. Preventing Environmental Damage: Untreated acidic or alkaline waste can lead to environmental harm, impacting not just aquatic life but also water quality for human use. Neutralization helps prevent such damage, maintaining a healthier environment.

In summary, neutralizing factory waste before its disposal into water bodies plays a vital role in preserving ecological balance, protecting aquatic life, adhering to environmental regulations, and averting harm to the environment and human health.