15 Questions
Why is groundwater considered vulnerable according to the text?
It moves around underground and into other bodies of water.
What percentage of Earth's population relies on groundwater for its needs?
Over 33%
How does pollution enter groundwater according to the text?
By washing over harmful substances in the ground during rain
Which harmful substance from fertilizers can be dangerous in drinking water?
Nitrates
Why is groundwater more vulnerable to environmental issues compared to surface water?
Groundwater is underground and difficult to access for testing and regulation.
What role do manufacturing industries play in groundwater pollution?
They contribute to groundwater pollution through their activities.
In what way does groundwater provide for Earth's population according to the text?
Primarily through drinking water and other needs
What is the primary cause of groundwater depletion mentioned in the text?
Excessive pumping for agricultural irrigation
What is the consequence of overdrawing groundwater in coastal areas?
Saltwater intrusion into aquifers
What analogy is used in the text to explain the concept of subsidence?
An inflated balloon being deflated, causing the ground to sink
Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a consequence of subsidence in the text?
Formation of large sinkholes
What is the primary reason for the sinking of Mexico City?
Subsidence caused by overdrawing groundwater
What comparison is made in the text to illustrate the concept of groundwater depletion?
A bank account with withdrawals exceeding deposits
Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a potential source of groundwater contamination in the text?
Runoff from agricultural pesticides
Which of the following statements about groundwater recharge is true?
Aquifers take a very long time to refill
Study Notes
Groundwater Importance
- Groundwater is a vital natural resource, providing drinking water, household water, and irrigation water for crops, among other uses.
- Over 1/3 of the global population, including 99% of rural US residents, rely on groundwater for their needs.
Groundwater Vulnerability
- Groundwater is more vulnerable to environmental issues due to its underground location, making it difficult to access for testing, regulation, and cleaning.
- Groundwater flows not only underground but also surfaces as discharge into streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Pollution
- Groundwater pollution arises from harmful substances in the soil, which are washed into aquifers by rainwater.
- Agriculture contaminates groundwater with fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, which can cause cancers, miscarriages, and birth defects.
- Manufacturing industries release toxic chemicals that can leach into the ground, polluting groundwater.
- Underground storage tanks can leak sewage waste, oil, and toxic chemicals, contributing to groundwater pollution.
Overdrawing
- Groundwater depletion occurs faster than surface water depletion due to slow aquifer refill rates.
- Over-pumping groundwater for drinking water and agricultural irrigation leads to depletion.
- Withdrawals from aquifers exceed deposits, depleting groundwater resources.
Consequences of Overdrawing
- Overdrawing groundwater allows saltwater intrusion into aquifers along coastal areas, making water undrinkable.
- Subsidence occurs when the ground sinks to fill the space created by groundwater removal, causing structural damage and broken underground pipes.
- Mexico City has sunk over 33 feet due to subsidence, resulting in buckled streets, tilted buildings, and broken pipes.
Test your knowledge on the vulnerability of groundwater, an essential natural resource that provides water for various purposes. Learn about the environmental challenges and issues that affect groundwater quality and availability.
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