What distinguishes non-point source pollution from point-source pollution?

Non-point source pollution is characterized by its origins being dispersed from numerous, widely scattered sources, which makes it different from point-source pollution that comes from a single identifiable location. This type of pollution often occurs when rainfall or snowmelt moves over and through the ground, picking up pollutants and carrying them into water bodies. Common sources include agricultural runoff, urban runoff, and airborne deposition.

Because non-point source pollution lacks a precise point of origin, it is more challenging to monitor and regulate than point-source pollution, which can be traced back to specific facilities or discharge points. The complexity of controlling non-point source pollution arises from the variety of contributing sources and the variations in land use throughout a given area. This characteristic is what makes option B the correct choice.