Overpumping can cause which problem in the aquifer?

Overpumping can cause which problem in the aquifer?

• A. Subsidence
• B. Increased rainfall
• C. Higher water quality
• D. Greater aquifer recharge

Answer: (A)

Overpumping lowers the pressure that supports the sediments in the aquifer. When groundwater is withdrawn faster than it can be replenished, the pore pressure drops and the sediment grains compact more tightly. This compaction can be permanent in many layers, causing the ground surface to sink — a process called subsidence. Rainfall doesn’t increase because of pumping, and water quality isn’t inherently improved by pumping; in practice, pumping can worsen quality in some cases by concentrating dissolved minerals or causing seawater intrusion in coastal areas. Pumping also doesn’t create more aquifer recharge; recharge comes from infiltration of precipitation and surface water, and pumping can even hinder it by lowering the water table and altering hydraulic gradients.

Overpumping lowers the pressure that supports the sediments in the aquifer. When groundwater is withdrawn faster than it can be replenished, the pore pressure drops and the sediment grains compact more tightly. This compaction can be permanent in many layers, causing the ground surface to sink — a process called subsidence.

Rainfall doesn’t increase because of pumping, and water quality isn’t inherently improved by pumping; in practice, pumping can worsen quality in some cases by concentrating dissolved minerals or causing seawater intrusion in coastal areas. Pumping also doesn’t create more aquifer recharge; recharge comes from infiltration of precipitation and surface water, and pumping can even hinder it by lowering the water table and altering hydraulic gradients.