5
QuizMultiple Choice

Groundwater — Quiz

Question 5 • Earth and Space Science

If groundwater levels continue to drop in Seabright Flats over the next five years, what is the most likely impact on the estuary?

Answer
A
Salinity will remain the same because rainfall controls estuary conditions.
B
Salinity will fluctuate randomly, with no link to groundwater changes.
C
Salinity will decrease because less groundwater pushes saltwater inward.
D
Salinity will increase as reduced freshwater flow allows more saltwater intrusion.

Explanation

Groundwater supplies freshwater to the estuary. If groundwater levels drop, less freshwater flows into the estuary to dilute its water and resist incoming seawater. As a result, saltwater can intrude farther into the estuary and salinity is likely to increase, matching choice D.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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