What types of pollutants are commonly associated with stormwater runoff?

The correct choice identifies a range of pollutants that are typically found in stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation flows over impervious surfaces, like roads and parking lots, picking up various materials along the way.

Sediments are a primary pollutant that can lead to water quality degradation, causing issues such as increased turbidity and habitat disruption. Heavy metals, which may come from vehicle parts and industrial activities, are significant because they can be toxic to aquatic life even in small concentrations. Nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers, can cause eutrophication in water bodies, leading to harmful algal blooms. Oil and grease from vehicles and industrial activities can coat aquatic organisms and ecosystems, while pathogens, often from animal waste or improperly managed septic systems, pose health risks to humans and wildlife.

The other options contain pollutants that are less commonly associated with stormwater runoff in the same context. For instance, pesticides are not the primary focus in stormwater management, while carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide are more relevant to air pollution than to stormwater issues. Similarly, plastic waste and thermal pollution, while serious environmental concerns, do not capture the full range of typical stormwater pollutants that significantly affect water quality. Lastly, household chemicals, paint, and fertilizers