5
QuizMultiple Choice

Earth's Water System — Test

Question 5 • Earth and Space Science

Which best explains why pumping wells increase saltwater intrusion into the aquifer?

Answer
A
Pumping removes groundwater evenly, keeping saltwater and freshwater in balance.
B
Pumping lowers the water table, reducing freshwater pressure that normally resists saltwater movement.
C
Pumping reduces freshwater recharge, decreasing the amount of water available to hold back saltwater.
D
Pumping raises the water table, increasing freshwater pressure that pushes saltwater farther out to sea.

Explanation

Pumping wells withdraw freshwater and lower the groundwater level and pressure. That weakens the freshwater force that normally keeps denser saltwater from moving inland into the aquifer. Choice B describes this loss of pressure; pumping does not raise the water table as choice D claims.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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