Definitions [5]
Define ‘eutrophication’.
Eutrophication: “Organic matter in sewage poured into water bodies generally results in excessive growth of algae – which deoxygenates water and produces deadening atmosphere there.”
Define – Saline water.
Water with a large amount of dissolved solids is not potable or suitable for drinking. Such water is called saline water.
Define – Freshwater.
Water is obtained naturally from ice sheets, ice caps, glaciers, icebergs, ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, and underground is called freshwater.
Answer the following question.
What is water harvesting?
The collection of rainwater for direct use or for recharging the groundwater level for indirect use is called water harvesting.
Define – Scarcity of water.
There is no change in the total quantity of water available on the earth. It remains the same. But the water useful for plants, animals, and man is decreasing day by day. It is called the Scarcity of water.
Key Points
- Water resources include surface water (rivers, lakes, ponds) and groundwater (water stored below the earth).
- 97% of Earth’s water is saline (oceans); only 0.03% is available as fresh surface water for direct use.
- Surface water mainly comes from rainfall and melting of glaciers, but is easily polluted.
- Groundwater forms by percolation of rainwater and is stored in aquifers; it is the largest usable freshwater source.
- India depends on monsoon rains, and proper water management is essential for agriculture and economic growth.
