Freshwater and Its Sources

About this reader

Freshwater is a limited resource, with most stored in glaciers and aquifers. Rivers, lakes, and groundwater are key sources, but conservation is essential to ensure sustainable supplies.

Written by Neha Goel TripathiPublished by Workybooks

Preview

Sample passage and quiz content

CONTENT PREVIEW

Freshwater is essential for life, yet it makes up only 2.5% of the Earth’s total water supply. Most of this freshwater is locked in glaciers and ice caps, leaving less than 1% accessible for human use. The primary sources of freshwater include rivers, lakes, groundwater, and rainwater.

Rivers and lakes are surface water sources that provide drinking water, irrigation, and habitat for aquatic life. However, they are vulnerable to pollution and overuse. Groundwater, stored in underground aquifers, is a critical source of freshwater for agriculture and drinking. It is replenished by rainwater that seeps into the ground, a process called recharge.

Rainwater is another important source of freshwater, especially in regions with limited surface water. It can be collected and stored for use in homes, farms, and industries. However, freshwater availability is threatened by climate change, population growth, and pollution.

To ensure sustainable freshwater supplies, conservation efforts like water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and efficient irrigation are essential. Protecting freshwater sources from contamination is also crucial for maintaining water quality.

Fun fact: The Amazon River carries more freshwater than any other river in the world, discharging about 209,000 cubic meters per second into the Atlantic Ocean!

What percentage of the Earth’s water is freshwater?

10%2.5%50%97.5%

Where is most freshwater stored?

In rivers and lakesIn glaciers and ice capsIn the oceanIn the atmosphere

What is groundwater?

Water stored in riversWater stored in underground aquifersWater in glaciersWater in the ocean

What is one source of freshwater?

SaltwaterRainwaterOcean waterGlaciers only

What is recharge?

The process of rainwater seeping into the groundThe process of water evaporatingThe process of glaciers meltingThe process of rivers drying up

What is one threat to freshwater availability?

Increased rainfallClimate changeReduced population growthImproved water quality

What is the fun fact mentioned in the passage?

The Amazon River carries the most freshwaterFreshwater makes up 50% of the Earth’s waterGroundwater is unlimitedRainwater is not a source of freshwater

What is one way to ensure sustainable freshwater supplies?

Overuse of groundwaterRainwater harvestingIncreasing pollutionIgnoring conservation

Curriculum

Common Core standards covered

RI.5.3

Explain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text based on specific information in the text.

Who it's for