The letters following each Review Question refer to the corresponding Learning Objective from the Chapter Opener. What are some sources of groundwater contamination? How can it be prevented? (F)

Groundwater gets contaminated by various sources primarily due to human activities like: 1. Industrial Effluents: Many industries discharge harmful chemicals into the environment which can seep into the earth contaminating groundwater. 2. Agriculture: Fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals used in agriculture tend to contaminate groundwater. 3. Landfills: Improper waste disposal means toxic substances can leak into the groundwater. 4. Mining Activities: Minerals and heavy metals exposed during mining process can contaminate groundwater. 5. Sewage: Sewage leakage can also be a source of groundwater contamination.

To prevent groundwater pollution, the following measures can be adopted: 1. Efficient Waste Disposal: Proper waste management systems should be deployed to avoid leakage into the ground. 2. Use of Eco-friendly Substances: Opting for eco-friendly fertilizers and pesticides can significantly reduce pollution. 3. Treated Industrial Waste: Treated waste should be released from industries to minimize harm to the environment. 4. Regular Monitoring and Assessment of Groundwater: Regular check and assessment of groundwater will help in early detection and mitigation of any contamination. 5. Educating masses: Creating awareness among masses about the harmful effects of groundwater contamination can motivate them to adopt pollution prevention strategies.

To ensure long term sustainability, it is essential that we as a society move towards practices which do not harm our ecosystem. Using renewable sources of energy, limited use of water and a greener approach to all aspects of life can contribute towards reducing groundwater contamination. It is important to understand that groundwater is a valuable resource and its conservation is significant for our future generations.