What causes the increasing contamination of air and water on Earth?

Options

A. Acid rain
B. Soil erosion
C. Earthquakes
D. Increasing population

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Contamination**: Contamination of air and water refers to the presence of harmful substances that negatively affect the quality of these natural resources. This can lead to adverse effects on living organisms and the environment.

2. **Identifying Causes of Air Contamination**:
- **Vehicle Emissions**: One of the major contributors to air pollution is the exhaust from vehicles. As the population increases, the number of vehicles on the road also increases, leading to higher emissions of pollutants.
- **Industrial Discharges**: Factories and industries release various harmful gases and particles into the air, contributing to air contamination.

3. **Identifying Causes of Water Contamination**:
- **Misuse of Water**: Activities such as excessive washing and bathing can lead to the introduction of soaps and chemicals into water bodies.
- **Agricultural Runoff**: The use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture can lead to runoff that contaminates nearby water sources.

4. **Role of Population Growth**: The increasing population is a significant factor in the contamination of air and water. More people lead to:
- Increased demand for resources, which can lead to over-extraction and pollution.
- Higher waste generation, which can contaminate both air and water if not managed properly.

5. **Conclusion**: The increasing population is a primary cause of the rising levels of air and water contamination on Earth. As the population grows, so does the amount of waste and pollution generated, leading to more significant environmental issues.