Earth Science SOL Unit 9.3 - Groundwater

What is groundwater primarily used for in the United States?

• Drinking water

• Industrial processes

• Irrigating crops

• Recreational activities

Answer explanation

Groundwater is primarily used for irrigating crops in the United States, as it provides a vital source of water for agriculture, especially in areas where surface water is scarce.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

The hydrologic cycle is also known as the (a)   .

• Water Cycle

• Carbon Cycle

• Nitrogen Cycle

• Oxygen Cycle

Answer explanation

The hydrologic cycle describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, which is commonly referred to as the Water Cycle. The other cycles listed pertain to different elements.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

How does high porosity affect water movement?

• It prevents water from moving.

• It allows most water or air to move through.

• It causes water to evaporate.

• It makes water flow faster.

Answer explanation

High porosity means there are many spaces within a material, allowing water and air to easily move through it. This is why the correct answer is that high porosity allows most water or air to move through.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What is the primary consequence of water running off impermeable surfaces?

• Increased water filtration

• Water pollution

• Enhanced water absorption

• Decreased water flow

Answer explanation

The primary consequence of water running off impermeable surfaces is water pollution. This runoff can carry pollutants like oils, chemicals, and debris into water bodies, degrading water quality.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Match the following zones with their main functions.

• Zone of Aeration

• 1. Has pores that are filled mostly with air and some water; closer to the surface

• Zone of Saturation

• Has pores that are filled with water; closest to the ground/bottom

• Water Table

• he division between the Zone of Aeration and the Zone of Saturation; at the water level

Answer explanation

Refer to your notes on Groundwater.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Match the ways water infiltrates the ground with their definitions.

• Low Porosity Surface

• 1. Surface porous for water or air through

• Impermeable Surface

• Water runs off and easily become contaminated or polluted

• Permeable Surface

•  Naturally filter water as it soaks into the ground instead of running off into rivers

• High Porosity Surface

• 1. Surface with almost no water or air porosity; Surface will contribute to Runoffs

Answer explanation

Refer to your notes on Groundwater.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What is the relationship between artesian wells and confined aquifers?

• Artesian wells are dug into unconfined aquifers.

• Artesian wells are dug into confined aquifers.

• Artesian wells are above ground.

• Artesian wells do not require pumping.

Answer explanation

Artesian wells tap into confined aquifers, where water is trapped under pressure between layers of impermeable rock. This pressure allows water to rise naturally to the surface without the need for pumping.

What happens to the water table when a water table well is used?

• It rises.

• It remains unchanged.

• It lowers.

• It becomes impermeable.

Answer explanation

When a water table well is used, water is extracted from the ground, causing the water table to lower. This occurs because the rate of water removal exceeds the rate of natural replenishment.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

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What forms on the ceiling of a cave from mineral deposits left by dripping water?

• Stalagmites

• Stalactites

• Sinkholes

• Caverns

Answer explanation

Stalactites form on the ceiling of a cave from mineral deposits left by dripping water. As water drips, it leaves behind minerals that accumulate over time, creating these icicle-like formations.

What is the surface expression of underground drainage often seen as?

• Mountains

• Sinkholes

• Rivers

• Lakes

Answer explanation

The surface expression of underground drainage is often seen as sinkholes. These depressions form when the ground collapses due to the erosion of underlying limestone or other soluble rocks, making sinkholes a direct result of underground drainage.