Microbial pollution travels a short distance through which of the following?

Microbial pollution is known to have varying mobility depending on the soil type and its characteristics. Sandy loam or clay has a combination of particle sizes and structure that can allow for some degree of water retention and slow movement of contaminants. While sandy loam provides a balance of drainage and water retention, clay soils can become compacted, limiting movement.

In sandy loam or clay, the relatively fine particles can impede the travel of microbial pollutants, as water movement through these soils is not as rapid as it is through coarser materials. This means that any potential contamination tends to linger in the vicinity of the source rather than moving quickly over long distances, making it more likely for pollutants to remain localized and reduce the risk of widespread contamination when compared to other types of soils.

Overall, the characteristics of sandy loam or clay support the idea that microbial pollution will not travel far, as the physical properties restrict the movement of water and, consequently, any microbial contaminants that may be present.