The development of a nuclear power plant at an ocean site is expected to produce an enormous amount of electric power for a large population. Ocean water will be used to cool the plant and then returned to the ocean. What unintended consequence should be analyzed before starting construction?

The questions have been asked in several important state and regional science exams in the United States. For example: TAKS-Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, New York State Educational Department Regents exams, California Standards Test, etc.