* The oil spreads across the surface of the water, forming a slick.
* The slick can travel long distances, depending on the wind and currents.
* The oil can evaporate, dissolve in the water, or be broken down by bacteria.
* Some of the oil may sink to the bottom of the ocean, where it can smother marine life.
Short-term effects of an oil spill
* Oil can kill marine life by coating their feathers or fur, which prevents them from staying warm or waterproof.
* Oil can also poison marine life by entering their bodies through their gills or skin.
* Oil can damage marine habitats, such as coral reefs and seagrass beds.
* Oil can also make beaches unusable for swimming and fishing.
Long-term effects of an oil spill
* Oil can persist in the environment for many years, and it can continue to cause damage to marine life and habitats.
* Oil can also have negative effects on human health, such as causing cancer and respiratory problems.
* Oil spills can also damage the tourism industry, which can have a negative impact on the local economy.
Cleanup after an oil spill
* Oil spills are very difficult to clean up.
* There are a number of different methods that can be used to clean up oil spills, including:
* Skimming the oil off the surface of the water
* Using dispersants to break up the oil
* Burning the oil
* Using bacteria to break down the oil
* The cleanup process can take many months or even years.
