What is the effect of a thermal power plant on water bodies?

Options

A. The temperature of water increases.
B. The temperature of water decreases.
C. The salt level in the water increases.
D. The salt level in the water decreases.

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Thermal Power Plants**:
- Thermal power plants generate electricity by burning fossil fuels. This process produces a significant amount of heat.

2. **Cooling Mechanism**:
- To manage the heat produced, thermal power plants use water as a coolant. The water absorbs the excess heat from the machines to maintain their efficiency.

3. **Impact on Water Bodies**:
- When water is used for cooling, it absorbs heat and becomes warmer. This heated water is often discharged back into nearby water bodies.

4. **Temperature Increase**:
- The primary effect of a thermal power plant on water bodies is that the temperature of the water increases. This is because the hot water from the cooling process raises the overall temperature of the water body.

5. **Consequences of Increased Temperature**:
- An increase in water temperature can lead to a decrease in the level of dissolved oxygen in the water, which is detrimental to aquatic life.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: **a. The temperature of water increases**.