Groundwater (practice) Questions with Correct Answers

Explain the importance of groundwater as a source of freshwater Groundwater is an important source of freshwater, partly because it accounts for approximately 30% of the Earth's freshwater. Groundwater is an important source of freshwater for areas that do not have access to other sources of freshwater, such as areas that are experiencing droughts. What approximate percentage of the Earth's freshwater is groundwater? a. 10% b. 20% c. 30% d. 40% c. 30% Explain how groundwater overdraft occurs and its likely consequences. Groundwater overdraft occurs when the groundwater resources are used up more quickly than they are replenished. Groundwater overdraft can occur for a period of time without noticeable consequences, but eventually the aquifer will not be able to keep up with the rate of use as its water storage is depleted. This leads to unproductive or even dried up wells. Groundwater overdraft occurs when _______. a. the location of the water table changes due to season b. aquifers become polluted c. the rate of use exceeds the rate of replenishment d. trees are planted c. the rate of use exceeds the rate of replenishment Why has groundwater use increased over time? The principal reason for the increase of groundwater use is the increasing population. Urbanization and pollution have both contributed to an increase in the use of groundwater. Polluted rivers, lakes, and springs are no longer viable sources of groundwater. Urbanization has concentrated large populations in