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QuizMultiple Choice

Groundwater — Quiz

Question 1 • Earth and Space Science

Why does a falling water table in the aquifer likely lead to higher estuary salinity?

Answer
A
Lower water tables increase evaporation, which directly adds salt to the estuary.
B
Rising groundwater levels pump salt into the estuary from underground sources.
C
Shallow groundwater absorbs rainfall, which reduces saltwater inflow.
D
Deeper groundwater levels reduce the freshwater discharge that dilutes estuary saltwater.

Explanation

A falling water table means groundwater is deeper and less likely to flow into the estuary. With less freshwater discharge, there is less dilution of the saltwater, so estuary salinity rises. Choice D states this relationship; the other choices do not describe the main effect of a falling water table.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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