Managing Water Supplies Study Guide

This collection of flashcards focuses on key concepts related to managing water supplies, covering topics such as water distribution, insecurity, strategies for management, and desalination methods.

What percentage of the Earth's water is salt water in oceans?

97.5%

What are the two types of fresh water sources?

Surface fresh water and sub-surface fresh water.

What defines the water table in an aquifer?

The upper most portion of an aquifer, where the soil is fully saturated with water.

What is a confined aquifer?

An aquifer that is fully saturated with water and has an impermeable layer above and below.

What is water security?

The ability to access enough clean water to maintain adequate standards of food, sanitation, and sustainable health care.

Name two causes of water insecurity.

Climate change and population growth.

What is soil salinization?

The accumulation of salts in the top layer of soil reducing soil productivity, often caused by overuse of water in irrigation.

Name one strategy for managing water insecurity.

Using sustainable water extraction methods.

What is reverse osmosis?

A method that uses high pressure to force saltwater through a membrane filter to remove salts.

What are the advantages of using reservoirs and dams?

Provides water for irrigation and drinking, useful for recreation, and can produce hydroelectric power.

What is an artesian well?

A well that taps into a confined aquifer where water is under pressure.

What is a common impact of water insecurity on agriculture?

Reduced crop yield and crop failure.

What are some methods of improving irrigation practices?

Drip irrigation, irrigating at night, and using soil moisture monitors.

What is brine in the context of desalination?

The concentrated salt solution that remains after desalination processes like reverse osmosis.

What is one disadvantage of inter-basin water transfer projects?

It can increase the salinity of water and disrupt local ecosystems.

Why is education on sustainable water use important?

To promote awareness and practices that can help conserve water resources.