Question 1: What is 'per capita water consumption'?

Answer: The average amount of water used per person in a given period, usually measured in litres per day.

Question 2: Define 'water stress'.

Answer: A situation where the demand for water exceeds the available supply or when water quality is deteriorating.

Question 3: Explain 'inter-basin transfer' in the context of UK water management.

Answer: A process of transferring water from one river basin to another to alleviate shortages, such as the Thames Water transfer scheme.

Question 4: Name the main sources of water in the UK.

Answer: Rivers, lakes, aquifers, and reservoirs.

Question 5: What is 'desalination'?

Answer: A process that removes salt and other impurities from seawater to produce fresh water, primarily used in arid regions or areas with limited freshwater sources.

Question 1: Which UK region experiences the highest levels of water stress?

Answer: South-East England

Question 2: Name two major reservoirs that supply London.

Answer: The Queen Mary Reservoir and the Beckton Reservoir.

Question 3: What is the primary cause of water pollution in UK rivers?

Answer: Agricultural runoff

Question 4: Describe one method used to reduce water wastage in UK households.

Answer: Installing water-saving devices such as low-flow showerheads or dual-flush toilets.

Question 1: Based on the Thames Water case, identify two strategies used to increase water supply in London.

Answer: Implementation of inter-basin transfers from the River Severn and the construction of new reservoirs such as the Walthamstow Reservoir.

Question 2: Explain the environmental impacts associated with the Thames Water inter-basin transfer scheme.

Answer: Potential disruption of ecosystems in the transfer areas, reduced flow in recipient rivers, and increased risk of pollution during construction and operation.

Question 3: Assess how demand management techniques, like water restrictions, help alleviate water stress in the South-East of England.

Answer: Water restrictions reduce unnecessary consumption, helping to stretch limited supplies, but may inconvenience users and require public cooperation for effectiveness.

Question 1: Explain why water demand is higher in urban areas like London compared to rural areas.

Answer: Urban areas have higher population densities, more industrial activity, and greater domestic water use, leading to increased demand compared to rural regions.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of water pollution in UK rivers and suggest potential solutions.

Answer: Causes include agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and urban sewage. Solutions involve stricter regulations, better waste management, and investment in sewage treatment facilities.

Question 3: Describe the pattern of water availability across the UK and how climate influences it.

Answer: Water availability varies regionally, with wetter western areas like Wales and Scotland having abundant resources, while drier eastern regions rely more on imported or stored water; climate influences rainfall patterns and drought frequency.

Question 1: To what extent are current water management strategies effective in ensuring a sustainable water supply in the UK? Consider benefits and limitations.

Answer: Current strategies like reservoir construction, inter-basin transfers, and demand management help address shortages and reduce pollution; however, challenges remain due to climate change, increasing demand, and environmental impacts. A balanced approach combining technological, policy, and community efforts is essential for long-term sustainability.