GEOG 128
Question One
If I were a governor in one of the states where Americans are moving to the arid southwestern area, I would recommend water protection policies to mitigate the situation. Therefore, one of the policies would address the importance of having a well-developed infrastructure. Such a policy shows systems like wells, water treatment plants, and dams should be constructed to minimize water losses. As a result, water wastage will be minimized significantly in the area. The other policy I would advocate would emphasize the importance of using water effectively. This type of policy outlines vital ways of using water and other related resources. The policy also prioritizes key areas that water should be used in as compared to others. Besides, the policy mentions about the fines and punishments for people who misuse water and other related resources. Thirdly, I would recommend a population regulation policy to mitigate the situation. The policy should limit the number of people moving to the southwestern area. In effect, there will be a small number of people to lower water demand.
Question Two
After a rain, water molecules settle on the ground and other surfaces as the resting place. After a short while, some water molecules seep underneath the ground. Plants absorb a certain percentage of water while other molecules sink deep in the ground surface. During this stage, microorganisms ingest water through various mechanisms depending on their natures. Later, the ingested water is excreted, and the highest percentage finds its way to the ground. On the ground, the excreted water is absorbed by plants, and some of it evaporates. Plants exhale water through the process of transpiration. The exhaled and evaporated water finds their way to the crowds, up in the skies. On the crowds, water molecules settle down through a process of condensation. Water molecules usually condense in the form of huge masses in the crowds. The condensed water molecules later fall on the ground, through precipitation.
Question Three
Life is not possible without water. Water is essential for sustenance. Plants and animals use water to manufacture their foods, needed for survival. Also, animals feed on plants for survival. On the other hand, plants rely on animals for resources like manure and preservation. It is also essential to note that drinking water directly from a local stream or any other natural source is unsafe. Water from a stream is usually untreated and contaminated with various substances and impurities that negatively affect a person’s health. Therefore, no one will be willing to drink water from their natural sources. In the treatment process, water is first piped to treatment plants. Treatment plants separate contaminants from water, as a purification undertaking. The purified water is supplied to destinations, such as schools, homes, and industries. Such water can be used for drinking since it is purified and uncontaminated. The eliminated contaminants and other materials are carried along as wastewater to sewage treatment plants.