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Multiple Choice
Why has groundwater use increased in many regions over recent decades?
A
Increased agricultural irrigation demands
B
Reduced industrial water consumption
C
Greater reliance on surface water sources
D
Decreased population growth
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of groundwater use: Groundwater is a critical resource for various human activities, including agriculture, industry, and domestic use. Over recent decades, changes in these activities have influenced groundwater demand.
Analyze the role of agricultural irrigation: Increased agricultural irrigation demands often lead to higher groundwater use. This is because agriculture requires large amounts of water, especially in regions with limited surface water availability or arid climates.
Evaluate industrial water consumption: Reduced industrial water consumption would not lead to increased groundwater use. Instead, it would likely decrease overall water demand, making this option less relevant to the question.
Consider reliance on surface water sources: Greater reliance on surface water sources would reduce the need for groundwater, as surface water would serve as an alternative supply. This makes this option inconsistent with the premise of increased groundwater use.
Assess population growth: Decreased population growth would typically reduce water demand, including groundwater use. Therefore, this option does not align with the observed trend of increased groundwater use.