Water Coverage and Human Impacts Quiz

Study Notes

Water Coverage and Distribution

Nearly three-fourths of Earth's surface is covered with water, primarily in oceans.
Groundwater comprises a significant portion of freshwater, found below Earth's surface; remaining freshwater exists in glaciers, ice caps, lakes, and streams.
Areas lacking surface water often rely on groundwater extraction, leading to depletion of this resource.

Sources of Water

Dams are large barriers built across rivers or streams to control water flow.
Wells are man-made structures or excavations for accessing groundwater, varying in size and construction based on their intended use.
Pumps are man-made devices for water extraction, used in various sectors including industry and agriculture.
Canals are constructed waterways specifically designed to transport water, facilitating irrigation, navigation, drainage, and water supply.

Human Impacts on Earth Systems

Human activities significantly shape the environment by altering ecosystems, regulating the water cycle, storing carbon, and enabling food production.
Soil is vital for agriculture; preparation involves land clearing, tree cutting, and soil plowing to create suitable conditions for crops.
Farming practices often lead to sediment production, which can affect nearby water bodies.

Methods of Soil Conservation

Strategies to prevent soil erosion include planting cover crops, establishing buffer strips, and planting trees.
Terracing involves creating stepped levels on slopes to improve water retention and reduce runoff.
Crop rotation enhances soil health by alternating plant types and replenishing nutrients.

Waste Management

Waste is defined as unwanted or unusable material that requires disposal, as outlined by the United Nations Environment.
Republic Act 9003, enacted on January 26, 2001, mandates integrated solid waste management to safeguard health and the environment.
This legislation emphasizes the 3R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and requires mandatory segregation of waste into compostable, recyclable, non-recyclable, and special use categories.

Types of Waste

Solid Waste: Includes domestic, commercial, and industrial materials like plastics, Styrofoam, papers, and sludge from treatment facilities.
Liquid Waste: Comprises chemicals, oils, and wastewater from industrial activities; includes sewage and agricultural runoff.
Gaseous Waste: Produced from processes like combustion, commonly arising from industrial activities.

Description

Explore the distribution and sources of water on Earth, focusing on oceans, groundwater, and human engineering like dams and wells. This quiz delves into how human activities impact natural water systems and resources. Test your knowledge on the vital role water plays in our environment.