Which term best describes the circulation of nutrient-rich waters that enhances oxygen depletion?

The term that best describes the circulation of nutrient-rich waters that enhances oxygen depletion is eutrophication. Eutrophication is a process that occurs when a body of water becomes overly enriched with nutrients, often as a result of runoff from fertilizers and sewage. This nutrient overload stimulates the rapid growth of algae and aquatic plants, leading to algal blooms.

As these algae die and decompose, the process consumes a significant amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, which can create hypoxic conditions, meaning the oxygen levels become too low to support most aquatic life. Over time, eutrophication can severely disrupt the ecosystem, leading to fish kills and a decline in water quality.

This phenomenon highlights the interconnectedness of nutrient levels and oxygen availability in aquatic environments, making eutrophication a critical concept in understanding environmental science and ecology.