Question 1: Define the term 'watershed' and provide an example in the US context.

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

Question 2: What is an aquifer? Give an example of an aquifer used for water supply in the US.

Answer: An aquifer is an underground layer of permeable rock that stores groundwater, such as the Ogallala Aquifer in the Great Plains.

Question 3: Name the main river basin that supplies water to Los Angeles, California.

Answer: The Colorado River basin.

Question 4: Explain the term 'runoff' in the context of water systems.

Answer: Runoff is water, from rain or snowmelt, that flows over the land surface toward rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.

Question 5: What is the significance of the Great Lakes in US water systems?

Answer: They form the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, providing water for millions and supporting ecosystems and commerce.

Question 1: Which US state is most reliant on the Ogallala Aquifer for its water supply?

Answer: Texas

Question 2: Name the main purpose of the Colorado River Compact.

Answer: To allocate water rights among the seven US states in the Colorado River basin.

Question 3: Identify two challenges faced by the Great Lakes water system.

Answer: Pollution from industrial waste and invasive species like zebra mussels.

Question 4: What is the primary source of water for the city of Los Angeles?

Answer: The Colorado River

Question 1: Describe the main issues facing the Colorado River water management system.

Answer: The Colorado River faces over-allocation, reduced flow due to drought and climate change, and conflicts among states over water rights.

Question 2: Analyze how climate change impacts the water availability in the Colorado River basin.

Answer: Climate change leads to decreased snowpack in the Rockies, earlier snowmelt, and increased evaporation, reducing river flows and exacerbating water scarcity.

Question 3: Evaluate the effectiveness of current water management strategies in the Colorado River basin.

Answer: Current strategies include water quotas and reservoir management, but they are challenged by ongoing drought, overuse, and climate impacts. While some measures help, long-term sustainability remains uncertain due to increasing demand and climate variability.

Question 4: Suggest potential solutions to improve water sustainability in the Colorado River basin.

Answer: Solutions include implementing more efficient water usage, investing in alternative water sources like recycled water, adjusting water rights agreements, and promoting conservation efforts among users.

Question 1: Explain why the over-allocation of water rights in the Colorado River has led to conflicts among US states.

Answer: Over-allocation means more water rights have been granted than the river can supply, leading to shortages and disputes among states competing for limited resources.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of declining water levels in the Great Lakes during recent decades.

Answer: Causes include increased industrial pollution, invasive species disrupting ecosystems, climate change reducing precipitation and increasing evaporation, and water diversion for agricultural and urban use.

Question 3: Explain the impact of urban development on water runoff and flooding in cities like Houston, Texas.

Answer: Urban development increases impervious surfaces like concrete, reducing infiltration and increasing runoff, which raises flood risks and strains drainage systems.

Question 1: To what extent have water conservation policies been successful in reducing water demand in California?

Answer: Water conservation policies in California, such as restrictions during drought periods and incentives for efficient appliances, have led to some reductions in demand. However, challenges remain due to population growth, agricultural needs, and climate variability, meaning that while policies help, they are not fully sufficient for long-term sustainability.

Question 2: Evaluate the environmental and social impacts of diverting water from the Colorado River to urban areas.

Answer: Diverting water supports urban growth and economic development but causes environmental issues like reduced river flow, loss of habitats, and decline of native species. Social impacts include conflicts over water rights, displacement of communities, and reduced water availability for agriculture and ecosystems. Balancing these factors requires integrated management and sustainable practices.