Theory question 305
Environmental Resources(a)(i) Highlight two ways in which water resources are classified. (ii) In what three ways can water resource be used? (b) Describe three ways by which man's activities limit the use of water as a resource.
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(a)(i) Surface water (rivers, lakes, seas, oceans) and underground water (wells, springs, aquifers); also fresh water and salt water; atmospheric water (rain, water vapour).
(ii) Domestic use (drinking, cooking, washing); irrigation; industry (cooling, processing); HEP generation; transport; fishing; recreation and tourism.
(b) Pollution from industrial wastes, oil spills and sewage makes water unsafe; deforestation leads to silting and drying of rivers; over-pumping lowers the water table; building dams reduces flow downstream; dumping of refuse blocks channels; use of fertilisers and pesticides contaminates water; poor management causes waste.
Explain how each activity reduces usable water.