Podcast
Questions and Answers
Why is only a small fraction (0.003%) of Earth's total water volume available for human consumption?
Why is only a small fraction (0.003%) of Earth's total water volume available for human consumption?
- The majority of Earth's freshwater is locked in polar ice caps and glaciers, or located in inaccessible areas. (correct)
- A large portion of Earth's water is contaminated by industrial waste, rendering it unsafe to drink.
- Most of Earth's freshwater sources are owned by private corporations and are not accessible to the general public.
- A significant amount of freshwater is used for agricultural irrigation, leaving very little for direct human consumption.
Which of the following statements accurately describes the distribution of water on Earth?
Which of the following statements accurately describes the distribution of water on Earth?
- The distribution of saltwater and freshwater is roughly equal, with each comprising about 50% of Earth's water resources.
- Saltwater constitutes a small percentage of Earth's water, with freshwater being the dominant type.
- The majority of Earth's water is located in underground aquifers readily available for human use.
- Freshwater accounts for approximately 3% of Earth's total water, while the remaining 97% is saltwater. (correct)
What is the primary distinction between freshwater and saltwater regarding human consumption?
What is the primary distinction between freshwater and saltwater regarding human consumption?
- Both freshwater and saltwater require desalination before they are safe for human consumption.
- Saltwater is generally safe to drink after boiling, while freshwater requires extensive filtration.
- Saltwater provides essential minerals not found in freshwater, making it healthier for consumption.
- Freshwater is directly potable for humans, while saltwater is not. (correct)
Which of these factors contributes to limiting the availability of freshwater for human use?
Which of these factors contributes to limiting the availability of freshwater for human use?
Besides humans, what organisms require potable water?
Besides humans, what organisms require potable water?
Why is Earth called the water planet?
Why is Earth called the water planet?
What are the three natural states in which water exists on Earth?
What are the three natural states in which water exists on Earth?
What is the best description of potable water?
What is the best description of potable water?
What makes water an extremely rare resource in the Solar System?
What makes water an extremely rare resource in the Solar System?
Besides natural events, what else influences earth's water supply?
Besides natural events, what else influences earth's water supply?
Flashcards
Potable Water
Potable Water
Water that is safe for humans to drink.
Drinkable Water Availability
Drinkable Water Availability
Earth has abundant water, but only a tiny fraction is easily accessible and drinkable.
Earth's Water Abundance
Earth's Water Abundance
Earth has the most water compared to other planets in our solar system.
States of Water
States of Water
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Influences on Water Supply
Influences on Water Supply
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Study Notes
- Earth is called the water planet since 74% of its surface is water.
- Variations in Earth’s water supply are influenced by natural occurrences and human activities.
Distribution of Water
- Earth contains more water than any other planet in the solar system.
- Water exists naturally as a solid (ice), liquid, and gas (vapor).
Drinking Water
- Humans require potable fresh water.
- Potable water is safe for humans and other organisms to drink.
- Freshwater makes up only 3% of Earth’s total water.
- Only 0.003% of Earth’s water is available for humans to drink because the rest is either too far below the surface or located too far from human habitats.
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