module45REVIEW

509

In this module, we looked at the two major water pollution laws in the United States. The Clean Water Act is designed to protect surface water from pollution, but it does not protect groundwater. In contrast, the Safe Water Drinking Act sets maximum levels for microorganisms, disinfectants, organic chemicals, and inorganic chemicals in drinking water. Whereas developed countries have gone through periods of large-scale water pollution as they industrialized, they have since passed many laws to improve water quality. Developing countries are currently experiencing industrialization and widespread water pollution. As these countries become more affluent, it is expected that they will also turn their attention to improving water quality.

Module 45 AP® Review Questions

Question 1

1. The first legislation on water quality was

  1. the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

  2. the Clean Water Act.

  3. the Safe Drinking Water Act.

  4. the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

  5. the Water Quality Act.

Question 2

2. Maximum contaminant levels for groundwater were set in

  1. the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

  2. the Clean Water Act.

  3. the Safe Drinking Water Act.

  4. the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

  5. the Water Quality Act.

Question 3

3. Which water quality issue is not covered in existing legislation?

  1. Water diversions

  2. Organic chemicals

  3. Offshore drilling

  4. Nonpoint sources

  5. Groundwater

Question 4

4. Which does NOT contribute to poor water quality in developing countries?

  1. High population density

  2. Political instability

  3. Rapid industrialization

  4. High unemployment

  5. Relocation of industry