A common pesticide used to control insect herbivory of crops is found in an aquifer. Using what you know about the hydrologic cycle, describe how the pesticide could have contaminated the water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is The pesticide could have contaminated the water in the aquifer through a process called leaching. When the pesticide is applied to the crops, it can be absorbed into the soil. During rainfall or irrigation, the water can percolate through the soil, carrying the pesticide with it. As the water moves downward, it can reach the water table and eventually enter the aquifer, contaminating the groundwater. Additionally, runoff from the fields can carry the pesticide directly into nearby surface water, which can then infiltrate into the aquifer. Once in the aquifer, the pesticide can persist and potentially impact the quality of the water supply.

A Common Pesticide Used to Control Insect Herbivory of Crops