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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary difference between surface water and groundwater in the context of water potential?
A
Surface water and groundwater have identical water potential values in all environments.
B
Surface water is found above ground in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, while groundwater is stored beneath the Earth's surface in soil and rock aquifers.
C
Surface water has a higher solute potential than groundwater due to increased evaporation.
D
Groundwater is always more contaminated than surface water because it is underground.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of water potential. Water potential (Ψ) is a measure of the potential energy in water and is influenced by factors such as solute concentration (solute potential, Ψs) and pressure (pressure potential, Ψp). It determines the direction of water movement.
Step 2: Analyze the characteristics of surface water. Surface water is found above ground in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. It is exposed to environmental factors such as evaporation, which can increase solute concentration and affect water potential.
Step 3: Examine the characteristics of groundwater. Groundwater is stored beneath the Earth's surface in soil and rock aquifers. It is less exposed to evaporation and environmental changes, which can result in different solute potential compared to surface water.
Step 4: Compare the solute potential of surface water and groundwater. Surface water often has a higher solute potential due to evaporation, which concentrates solutes. Groundwater, being underground, is less affected by evaporation and may have a lower solute potential.
Step 5: Evaluate the provided options based on the context of water potential. Consider the physical location (above ground vs. underground), exposure to environmental factors, and solute concentration to determine the most accurate description of the primary difference between surface water and groundwater.