QQuestionEarth Science
QuestionEarth Science
What percentage of fresh water is trapped in glaciers or underground aquifers?
A. 99%
B. 15%
C. 75%
D. 40%
10 months agoReport content
Answer
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Step 1:Let me solve this step-by-step with a comprehensive explanation:
Step 2:: Understand the Water Distribution on Earth
- Earth's total water is distributed across different reservoirs - Not all water is freshwater - We need to consider the breakdown of freshwater sources
Step 3:: Analyze Freshwater Sources
- Total freshwater is approximately 2.5% of Earth's water - Most freshwater is NOT readily accessible - Significant portions are locked in:
Step 4:
Glaciers
Step 5:
Underground aquifers
Step 6:
Ice caps
Step 7:
Permanent snow
Step 8:: Calculate Percentage in Glaciers and Aquifers
- This means $$\frac{75}{100} = 0.75$$ or 75% of freshwater is trapped in these sources
- Glaciers and underground aquifers contain approximately 75% of Earth's freshwater - These sources are not easily accessible for human use
Step 9:: Verify the Answer Choices
- Looking at the options, 75% matches option C
Final Answer
Key Insight: Most of Earth's freshwater is "locked" in glaciers and underground aquifers, making it challenging to use directly for human consumption or agriculture.
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