1.
Where is most of the Earth's freshwater located?
Correct Answer
A. In icecaps and glaciers
Explanation
Most of the Earth's freshwater is located in icecaps and glaciers. These frozen bodies of water hold a significant amount of freshwater, which is locked up in the form of ice. The icecaps and glaciers are found in polar regions and high mountain ranges. They play a crucial role in maintaining the Earth's water cycle and act as natural reservoirs, slowly releasing freshwater over time. This is why they are a vital source of freshwater for rivers, lakes, and other water bodies, making them the largest storage of freshwater on Earth.
2.
How is Earth's water supply being continuously renewed?
Correct Answer
B. Through the water cycle
Explanation
The correct answer is through the water cycle. The water cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. As water evaporates from the Earth's surface, it forms clouds and eventually falls back to the Earth as precipitation, replenishing the water supply. This cycle ensures that Earth's water supply is constantly renewed and available for various purposes such as drinking, agriculture, and sustaining ecosystems.
3.
Precipitation may ________ into groundwater.
Correct Answer
C. Infiltrate
Explanation
Precipitation may infiltrate into groundwater. This means that when it rains or snows, the water can seep into the ground and become part of the underground water system. Infiltration is an important process for replenishing groundwater supplies and maintaining water levels in aquifers. It helps to recharge wells and provides a natural filtration process as the water percolates through layers of soil and rock.
4.
Is it possible for groundwater to leave an aquifer?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
Groundwater can leave an aquifer through various natural processes. One common way is through discharge, where groundwater flows out of the aquifer and into streams, rivers, or lakes. This can occur when the water table intersects with the land surface or when there is a pressure gradient that forces groundwater to move towards lower elevations. Additionally, human activities such as pumping water from wells can also cause groundwater to leave the aquifer. Therefore, it is possible for groundwater to leave an aquifer.
5.
Why can the depth of a water table be high in some places and low in others?
Correct Answer
B. The depth changes due to precipitation, drought, or overuse of wells
Explanation
The depth of a water table can vary in different locations due to various factors. Precipitation, drought, and overuse of wells can all contribute to changes in the water table depth. In areas with high precipitation, the water table may be higher as there is more water entering the system. Conversely, during droughts, the water table can become lower as there is less water available. Overuse of wells can also lower the water table as it depletes the groundwater resources. Therefore, all of the mentioned factors can cause variations in the depth of the water table.
6.
Why is it possible for the rate of movement to vary?
Correct Answer
A. It can be because of the amount of precipitation, porosity of the rock, and slope of the aquifer
Explanation
The rate of movement can vary due to factors such as the amount of precipitation, the porosity of the rock, and the slope of the aquifer. These factors can affect the flow of water through the aquifer, with more precipitation leading to increased movement, higher porosity allowing for faster movement, and a steeper slope causing water to flow more quickly. Therefore, the rate of movement is not constant and can be influenced by these variables.
7.
Can groundwater be accessed by drilling wells?
Correct Answer
B. Yes
Explanation
Groundwater can be accessed by drilling wells. Wells are typically drilled deep into the ground to reach the water table, which is the level at which the ground is saturated with water. By drilling a well, water can be extracted from the underground aquifer, providing a source of groundwater for various purposes such as drinking water or irrigation.
8.
44% of all the freshwater is used by __________.
Correct Answer
C. Industry
Explanation
The correct answer is industry because industries such as manufacturing, mining, and power generation require large amounts of water for their operations. They use freshwater for various purposes such as cooling machinery, processing raw materials, and generating electricity. As a result, a significant portion of the world's freshwater resources is consumed by industrial activities.
9.
What kind of water is needed for agricultural use?
Correct Answer
A. Freshwater
Explanation
Freshwater is needed for agricultural use because it contains low levels of dissolved salts and minerals, making it suitable for irrigation and crop growth. Saltwater and groundwater are not ideal for agricultural use because saltwater can damage crops and groundwater may contain high levels of minerals that can be harmful to plants. Therefore, freshwater is the most appropriate type of water for agricultural purposes.
10.
What is irrigation?
Correct Answer
B. The process of bringing water to an area for use in growing crops
Explanation
Irrigation is the process of bringing water to an area for use in growing crops. This involves supplying water to the fields through various methods such as canals, pipes, or sprinklers. Plowing the fields is a separate activity that prepares the soil for planting. Bringing groundwater to crops when they are dying may be a part of irrigation, but it is not a comprehensive definition of the term. Therefore, the correct answer is the process of bringing water to an area for use in growing crops.
11.
What is one problem with overdraft?
Correct Answer
C. Both of the answers listed above
Explanation
The given answer states that both intrusion of saltwater into freshwater aquifers and sinking of bedrock are problems associated with overdraft. This suggests that overdraft can lead to the contamination of freshwater sources with saltwater and can also cause the sinking or subsidence of the underlying bedrock.
12.
What is desalination?
Correct Answer
A. The process by which salts are removed from the water
Explanation
Desalination is the process by which salts are removed from the water. This involves removing the dissolved salts and impurities from seawater or brackish water to produce fresh water that is suitable for human consumption or irrigation. This process usually involves techniques such as reverse osmosis, distillation, or electrodialysis. By removing the salts, desalination makes it possible to obtain freshwater from otherwise unusable sources like the ocean.
13.
What is freezing?
Correct Answer
C. When salt water is frozen and separates, forming an ice and brine slush; ice can be melted to obtain fresh water
Explanation
Freezing refers to the process of salt water being frozen and separating into ice and brine slush. This separation allows for the ice to be melted, resulting in the extraction of fresh water.
14.
What does unpotable mean?
Correct Answer
B. Unfit to drink
Explanation
The term "unpotable" refers to water that is not safe or suitable for drinking. This means that the water may contain contaminants or impurities that can be harmful if consumed. Therefore, the correct answer is "unfit to drink."
15.
What does screening do?
Correct Answer
A. Traps and removes large debris from water
Explanation
Screening is a process that involves the use of a physical barrier, such as a mesh or filter, to trap and remove large debris from water. This helps to prevent the debris from entering a system or body of water, ensuring that the water remains clean and free from any potential contaminants. By effectively removing large debris, screening helps to improve the overall quality of the water and maintain its usability for various purposes.
16.
Is chlorine a chemical that can be used in sterilization?
Correct Answer
C. Yes
Explanation
Chlorine is indeed a chemical that can be used in sterilization. It is commonly used as a disinfectant and sanitizer due to its strong oxidizing properties, which can kill or deactivate microorganisms. Chlorine is often used to sanitize drinking water, swimming pools, and medical equipment. It can effectively eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens, making it a valuable tool in sterilization processes.
17.
How are water resources renewed?
Correct Answer
A. Through the water cycle
Explanation
Water resources are renewed through the water cycle. The water cycle is a continuous process in which water evaporates from bodies of water, forms clouds, falls back to the earth as precipitation, and then flows into rivers and streams, eventually returning to the oceans. This cycle allows for the renewal and redistribution of water resources, ensuring a continuous supply of water for various uses such as drinking, agriculture, and industry.
18.
What is one type of use for water resources?
Correct Answer
A. Industrial
Explanation
Industrial use is one type of use for water resources. This refers to the use of water in various industries such as manufacturing, power generation, and agriculture. Industries require water for processes like cooling, cleaning, and as a raw material in their production. Water resources play a crucial role in supporting industrial activities and ensuring their sustainability.
19.
What happens when run-off gets caught in low places?
Correct Answer
A. It becomes standing water
Explanation
When run-off gets caught in low places, it becomes standing water. This occurs because the low areas prevent the water from flowing or draining away. Instead, the water accumulates and remains stagnant, forming pools or puddles.
20.
Freshwater is more plentiful than groundwater.
Correct Answer
B. No
Explanation
The given statement is "Freshwater is more plentiful than groundwater." The correct answer is "No." This means that freshwater is not more plentiful than groundwater. This suggests that groundwater is more abundant or readily available compared to freshwater.