Water: Practice Questions

Which of the following is considered a physical reason for water shortages in a region?

In many High-Income Countries (HICs), the highest proportion of water use is typically attributed to which sector?

A coastal city is facing severe water shortages due to over-extraction from its local aquifer, leading to saltwater intrusion. Which combination of management strategies would most effectively address both the immediate supply gap and the long-term sustainability of the resource?

What is a major economic impact of a lack of access to clean water in a developing country?

Study the following data showing water consumption by sector for two regions:
Country X: Agriculture: \(82\%\), Industry: \(5\%\), Domestic: \(13\%\)
Country Y: Agriculture: \(30\%\), Industry: \(55\%\), Domestic: \(15\%\)
Which conclusion can be drawn from this information?

State one social consequence and one economic consequence for a local population that lacks access to safe, clean water.

Define desalination and suggest one reason why it is not a viable water supply option for many developing nations.

Explain how a lack of access to clean water can act as a significant barrier to the economic development of a region.

In a developing country, water usage is divided between three main sectors. Agriculture uses \( 82\% \) of the total supply and domestic use accounts for \( 12\% \).
(a) Calculate the percentage of water used by the industrial sector.
(b) Briefly describe how a well or borehole provides a reliable water supply for a local community.

Effective water management is necessary to prevent shortages.
(a) Explain how the use of reservoirs and dams can ensure a consistent water supply in regions with seasonal rainfall.
(b) Suggest three ways in which a lack of access to clean water can negatively impact the economic development of a region.