Water Pollution and Solutions Section 3

Water covers ¾ of the Earth’s surface. Where is the water from? Ice in the poles Clouds

Why is it a scarce resource?? SALT salt water is 97% of the water on earth-which cannot be used for drinking or watering crops Ice ¾ of the FRESH water is in the form of ice

Groundwater Stored in soil and rock beneath the surface What are the layers of the soil?

Here’s the secret… fresh water is renewable!! HOW?!

Water Shortages Occur when people use water in an area faster than the water cycle can replace it. Many places in the world NEVER receive enough water to meet the needs of their own growing populations.

Water Pollution Iron or Copper- Can cause the water to be unpleasant Cause sickness or death. Most pollution comes from Humans!! –waste run off

6 Sources of Water Pollution Household Sewage- human wastes washed down sinks, toilets and showers Agricultural Wastes- pesticides and fertilizers Industry and Mining Wastes Sediments Heat Oil and Gasoline

Sediments Sediments are particles of rock, sand and clay that are washed away by water. Once they settle, it can cover up food sources and block sunlight, preventing algae and other plants from growing.

Oil and Gasoline Spills An oil spill is one of the MOST dramatic forms of water pollution. Nature can handle it in small amounts but not in large ones. Gasoline or oil that leaks out is extremely hard to clean up.

Keep it clean The key is… Sewage Treatment Reducing Pollutants Cleaning up Oil and Gasoline Spills

At Home… Household Water Pollutants: PAINT PAINT thinners Motor Oil Garden Chemicas