Question 1: Define 'watershed' and give an example of a major watershed in the United States.

Answer: A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into a common outlet, such as the Mississippi River watershed.

Question 2: What is aquifer and how does it contribute to water supply?

Answer: An aquifer is an underground layer of permeable rock that holds groundwater, supplying water for wells and springs.

Question 3: Explain the term 'water cycle' and its main processes.

Answer: The water cycle describes the continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.

Question 4: Name the largest river system in the United States.

Answer: The Mississippi River system.

Question 5: Define 'pollution' in the context of water systems and provide an example.

Answer: Pollution refers to contaminants in water that harm ecosystems or human health, such as agricultural runoff introducing nitrates.

Question 1: Which US state is primarily associated with the Colorado River?

Answer: Arizona

Question 2: Name the main purpose of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

Answer: To protect and restore the water quality of the Great Lakes.

Question 3: Identify two major threats to water security in the southwestern United States.

Answer: Drought and over-extraction of groundwater.

Question 4: What process replenishes groundwater in aquifers?

Answer: Recharge through infiltration from precipitation or surface water.

Question 5: Describe the role of the Columbia River in hydroelectric power generation.

Answer: The Columbia River is harnessed for hydroelectric dams, providing significant renewable energy for the Pacific Northwest.

Question 1: Based on the case study of the Colorado River Basin, identify two major challenges faced in water management.

Answer: Over-allocation of water rights and persistent drought reducing flow levels.

Question 2: Explain how water scarcity in the Colorado River affects agriculture and urban areas.

Answer: Water scarcity limits irrigation for crops and reduces water availability for cities like Las Vegas and Los Angeles, impacting economy and daily life.

Question 3: Assess the effectiveness of recent water conservation measures implemented in the Colorado River Basin.

Answer: Conservation measures such as water restrictions and efficiency programs have helped reduce usage but face challenges due to ongoing drought and legal disputes.

Question 4: Describe the potential future scenarios if water management strategies are not improved in this region.

Answer: Possible future scenarios include severe water shortages, ecological degradation, and increased conflicts over water rights.

Question 1: Explain why industrial runoff contributes to water pollution in the Mississippi River.

Answer: Industrial runoff contains chemicals and heavy metals that contaminate water, harming aquatic life and making water unsafe for human consumption.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of algal blooms in the Great Lakes and their environmental impact.

Answer: Algal blooms are caused by nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff and wastewater discharge, leading to oxygen depletion and harming fish populations.

Question 3: Explain the role of climate change in altering water availability in US water systems.

Answer: Climate change increases temperatures and alters precipitation patterns, leading to droughts, reduced snowpack, and variability in water supply.

Question 1: To what extent have water conservation programs been successful in reducing water demand in California? Consider environmental, economic, and social factors.

Answer: Water conservation programs in California have achieved significant reductions in demand through public awareness campaigns, restrictions, and technology upgrades. Environmentally, they help preserve water sources and reduce ecological stress. Economically, they lower costs for water treatment and supply. Socially, they increase community engagement but face challenges like public compliance and economic impacts on agriculture. Overall, while successful to a degree, further measures are needed to address ongoing drought and population growth.

Question 2: Evaluate the effectiveness of legal and policy measures in protecting water quality in the US.

Answer: Legal and policy measures such as the Clean Water Act have significantly improved water quality by regulating pollutants and setting standards. They have led to cleaner rivers and lakes; however, enforcement challenges, funding limitations, and emerging pollutants reduce their overall effectiveness. Continuous updates and stronger enforcement are necessary to address complex water issues in the future.