Water Test

Which two conclusions are best supported by the data? (Select two.)

• A. Most of Earth's freshwater is stored in sources that are difficult to access.

• B. Surface water is the most abundant source of freshwater for human use.

• C. Groundwater is a more sustainable source than glaciers because of its faster renewal rate.

• D. Oceans provide the majority of Earth's drinkable water because of their volume.

Based on the data, which ranking correctly orders these water sources from most to least available for human consumption over time?

• A. Surface Water > Groundwater > Ice Caps & Glaciers

• B. Oceans > Ice Caps & Glaciers > Groundwater > Surface Water

• C. Groundwater > Surface Water > Ice Caps & Glaciers

• D. Ice Caps & Glaciers > Groundwater > Surface Water

A student is analyzing a watershed map that shows a large river and several smaller streams flowing into it. The student identifies one of the smaller streams labeled "Rock Creek." Which statement best describes the relationship between Rock Creek and the large river?

• Rock Creek is an estuary that increases the river's salinity.

• Rock Creek is a divide that separates different watersheds.

• Rock Creek is an aquifer that stores groundwater for the river.

• Rock Creek is a tributary that contributes water to the river.

A manufacturing plant in Davidson, North Carolina, leaks a chemical pollutant into a nearby creek that flows into the Catawba River. Which of the following predictions about the movement of the pollution is most supported by the diagram?

• The pollutant will remain in Davidson, NC, because the soil will absorb it before it reaches larger water bodies.

• The pollutant will travel through the Catawba River system, potentially affecting water supplies in Charlotte, NC, before eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean.

• The pollutant will only impact areas immediately surrounding Davidson, as pollutants do not travel far in river systems.

• The pollutant will evaporate before reaching other areas, making it unlikely to affect ecosystems downstream.

What is an aquifer?

• An aquifer is an above-ground layer of impermeable rock that holds water underground under pressure, causing geysers.

• An aquifer is an above-ground layer of permeable rock that holds water, allowing it to be used as a source of drinking water.

• An aquifer is an underground layer of impermeable rock that forces water to the surface, causing floods.

• An aquifer is an underground layer of permeable rock that holds water, allowing it to be used as a source of drinking water.

Based on the diagram, what is the most likely relationship between wastewater treatment and our drinking water supply?

• Wastewater treatment removes all contaminants, making the discharged water immediately safe for drinking.

• Drinking water and wastewater come from completely separate sources, meaning they never interact in the water cycle.

• Treated wastewater is often released into rivers and reservoirs, which may later be used as sources for drinking water after further purification.

• Water from wastewater treatment plants is stored underground and does not re-enter the natural water system.

Which of the following provides the most scientifically valid reasoning for maintaining water quality standards?

• Ensuring clean water only benefits human health, so investing in water treatment beyond drinking water is unnecessary.

• Water pollution primarily affects wildlife, so industries and agriculture should not be required to follow strict regulations.

• Investing in water quality saves money in the long term by preventing health crises and environmental damage, making it both scientifically and economically necessary.

• Water quality standards should be flexible because water naturally purifies itself over time, eliminating most contamination risks.

Based on the data, which statement best explains the decline in fish populations?

• A. Stronger winds in 2024 led to excessive upwelling, depleting nutrients and reducing fish populations.

• B. The increase in ocean temperature in 2024 likely caused stronger upwelling, but fish populations declined for an unrelated reason.

• C. Weaker winds in 2024 reduced the process that brings nutrient-rich water to the surface, leading to lower phytoplankton growth and less food for fish.

• D. The fish population decline in 2024 was likely due to rising ocean temperatures directly causing fish to die from heat exposure.

Which well will provide House 2 with the cleanest water?

• Well 1

• Well 2

• Well 3

• Well 4

Which cities’ water samples exceed two of the EPA’s recommended maximum contamination levels?

• Cities W and X

• Cities X and Z

• Cities Y and W

• Cities Z and Y