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Chapter 7: Problem 3

Describe the locations of Earth's water, both oceanic and fresh. What is the largest repository of freshwater at this time? In what ways is this distribution of water significant to modern society?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Earth's water is largely located in the oceans and seas, while a smaller portion is in the form of freshwater in glaciers, ice caps, groundwater, lakes, and rivers. The largest repository of freshwater is the glaciers and ice caps, specifically in Antarctica and Greenland. This water distribution is significant in providing drinking water, regulating climate, sustaining marine ecosystems, and contributing to socio-economic and political challenges related to water scarcity.

Step by step solution

01

Identifying the Locations of Earth's Water

The Earth's water can be found in a variety of locations, including oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, glaciers, groundwater, and the atmosphere. The predominant reservoir of water is in the oceans and seas, which contain about 97% of all water on Earth. The remaining 3% is freshwater, found in glaciers, ice caps, groundwater, lakes, and rivers, as well as the atmosphere
02

Identifying the Largest Repository of Freshwater

Though a small fraction of Earth's total water, freshwater is critically important to life on land. The largest store of this freshwater is not in lakes or rivers, but frozen in glaciers and ice caps, particularly in Antarctica and Greenland.
03

Discussing the Significance of Water Distribution

The distribution of water on Earth is significant to modern society in numerous ways. Freshwater in lakes and rivers, as well as in groundwater, supplies the water we drink, irrigate crops with, and use in industry. Sea water's role in global weather patterns and climate, and as a habitat for vast ecosystems, is equally essential. Furthermore, melting ice due to global warming can lead to a rise in sea levels, posing a threat to coastal communities. The unequal natural distribution of freshwater also results in water shortages in some regions, leading to economic and political challenges.

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