Question 1

-The wind patterns indicated by arrows in the figure are primarily the result of

Accepted Answer

Earth's rotation significantly influences wind patterns through the Coriolis effect, causing moving air to turn right in the northern hemisphere and left in the southern hemisphere, shaping global wind patterns.

Question 2

Some people have thought that a big solution to water shortages in the southwestern United States is to create a large canal between the Great Lakes and the southwest.Why is this suggestion probably not sustainable?

Accepted Answer

The suggestion of creating a large canal between the Great Lakes and the southwest is not sustainable because it could deplete water levels in the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes are a vital source of freshwater, and their levels have already been declining due to various factors such as climate change and human activity. Diverting water from the Great Lakes to the southwest could exacerbate this problem and put the ecosystem and local economies at risk.

Question 3

Which one of the following is true?

Accepted Answer

This is the only option that accurately describes the existence of national water policies and agencies in many countries. Option A is not entirely true as the EPA primarily deals with issues of water quality, not quantity and distribution. Option B is inaccurate as most water policy decisions are made at the state and local level, not national. Option D is not true as the World Water Forum has not made any such prediction about water supplies for developing nations.

Question 4

-In the figure,the location of deserts in the northern and southern regions of Africa are best explained by understanding

Accepted Answer

Hadley cells are a key factor in explaining the location of deserts in both the northern and southern regions of Africa. These cells are large-scale patterns of atmospheric circulation in which warm air rises near the equator, cools as it travels polewards at high altitudes, sinks as cool air at about 30 degrees north and south of the equator, and then warms as it travels back towards the equator. This process leads to high pressure and dry conditions at these latitudes, contributing to the formation of deserts.

Question 5

The authors urge a national policy for the United States that includes

Accepted Answer

The authors suggest halting water subsidies and increasing conservation as a part of a national policy for the United States to address water scarcity. This would be an effective way of managing the demand for water and reducing wastage, thereby ensuring that water resources are used sustainably. The other options are not mentioned as part of the authors' recommendations for a national policy on water.

Question 6

Stewardship of water resources includes

Accepted Answer

Stewardship of water resources includes consideration of the needs of natural ecosystems and endangered species, as well as efforts to reduce wasteful use of water. It also includes meeting the need for good water for developing societies. Therefore, all of the given choices are correct.

Quiz 10: Water: Hydrologic Cycle and Human Use