Earth's Water: Distribution, Cycle, and Pollution

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Questions and Answers

How does deforestation contribute to water-related environmental issues?

  • It leads to decreased rainfall and increased drought.
  • It reduces the amount of water available for industrial use.
  • It directly causes thermal pollution in nearby water bodies.
  • It increases soil erosion, leading to muddier rivers and potential habitat destruction. (correct)

What is the primary cause of eutrophication in water systems?

  • The accumulation of plastic waste.
  • Excessive nutrients from fertilizers and other sources. (correct)
  • Oil spills blocking sunlight.
  • The release of hot water from factories.

Which of the following best describes how thermal pollution impacts aquatic ecosystems?

  • It increases the acidity of the water, damaging coral reefs.
  • It reduces the oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic organisms. (correct)
  • It introduces toxic chemicals that poison marine life.
  • It causes algal blooms that block sunlight.

How do oil spills primarily affect marine ecosystems?

<p>They block sunlight and oxygen, harming marine life. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the sun's heat in the water cycle?

<p>It drives evaporation, which is a key part of the water cycle. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is 'water in trade' essential for global commerce?

<p>Because oceans and rivers are crucial for global trade routes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sector is the largest consumer of freshwater resources?

<p>Agriculture (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does overusing groundwater lead to desertification?

<p>It reduces water tables and increases land aridity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a direct consequence of plastic pollution in marine environments?

<p>Marine animals mistaking plastic for food. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do excess nutrients from human activities contribute to red tide events?

<p>By triggering and fueling algal blooms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Water Coverage

Water covers 71% of Earth's surface.

Largest Water Body

Oceans and seas hold 97% of Earth's water. This water contains salt.

Agricultural Pollution

Excess fertilizers and pesticides washing into water, leading to eutrophication.

Eutrophication

Excess nutrients cause algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water.

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Deforestation & Water

Cutting trees increases soil erosion and muddies rivers.

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Red Tide Definition

Red tide occurs due to excess algae growth. It is also called Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB).

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Human Activities & Red Tide

Dumping fertilizers into water worsens algal growth.

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Water Usage by Sector

Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater.

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Preventing Desertification

Water prevents soil erosion and supports plant life.

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Groundwater Overuse

Excess use reduces water tables and increases desertification.

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Study Notes

  • Water covers 71% of Earth's surface and is essential for life.
  • Oceans and seas constitute the largest water body, holding 97% of Earth's water as saltwater.
  • Glaciers and ice caps store most of the Earth's freshwater, approximately 2% of the total water.
  • The sun's heat drives the water cycle, causing evaporation.
  • Condensation is when water vapor cools and forms droplets, creating clouds.
  • Infiltration occurs as water seeps into the ground, replenishing aquifers.
  • Only 3% of Earth's water is freshwater, with the majority being frozen.
  • Agricultural pollution happens when excess fertilizers and pesticides wash into water, and this leads to eutrophication.
  • Factories cause thermal pollution when they release hot water into rivers, reducing oxygen levels.
  • Oil spills block sunlight and oxygen, harming marine life.
  • Plastic pollution kills marine animals that mistake plastic for food.
  • Eutrophication is when excess nutrients cause algal blooms, which deplete oxygen.
  • Agriculture, factories, and mining are industries that pollute water bodies.
  • Pollution can be prevented by using eco-friendly products.
  • Deforestation increases soil erosion, muddying rivers.
  • Red tide, also known as Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), occurs due to excess algae growth.
  • Excess nutrients from runoff and pollution trigger algal blooms, causing red tide.
  • Algal blooms release toxins that kill fish and other marine animals, impacting marine life.
  • Dumping fertilizers into water worsens algal growth.
  • Red tide causes respiratory issues and skin irritation in humans.
  • Fishing and coastal tourism suffer economically due to contaminated seafood and dead zones because of red tide.
  • Reducing fertilizer use and industrial waste is imperative to prevent Red Tide.
  • Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater.
  • Water powers hydroelectric plants, generating electricity.
  • Water regulates body temperature and helps digestion.
  • Clean water prevents diseases and ensures sanitation.
  • Water is used in steel, textiles, and paper production in industry.
  • Water prevents soil erosion and supports plant life, preventing desertification.
  • Oceans and rivers are essential for global trade.
  • Excess groundwater use reduces water tables and increases desertification.

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