Water - Abstraction Flashcards
Which types of areas have demand exceeding supply of water?
In areas with low rainfall and high pop density.
Areas with intensive agricultural or industrial activity.
What is the dominant source of fresh water in majority of Europe?
Groundwater.
What is the result of a water source deficit?
Sinking water tables.
Empty wells.
Higher pumping costs.
Intrusion of saltwater which degrades groundwater.
What is a water source deficit?
When water is being extracted at a greater rate than it is being replenished by rainfall.
What is a water source surplus?
When water is being extracted at a lower rate than it is being replenished.
What are the main causes of over-abstraction of groundwater in the mediterranean?
High demand from tourist resorts.
Why can groundwater not be used in Malta?
Saline intrusion.
Where does Malta get its water from if not groundwater?
Expensive desalination plants.
What type of rock aquifer is underneath the south-east of England?
Chalk.
Where does the chalk aquifers underneath the south-east of England get its input from?
Exposed chalk hills of the North and South Downs and the Chilterns.
When does the recharging of the chalk aquifers beneath south-eastern England occur?
In the winter months when potential evapotranspiration is low and soil moisture deficits are low.
