Name three common human activities that can lead to groundwater contamination.

Acceptable answers include: agricultural practices (fertilizers, pesticides), industrial activities (waste disposal, chemical leaks), and domestic practices (septic systems, improper disposal of household chemicals).

Explain how the use of fertilizers in agriculture can contribute to groundwater pollution. Be specific about the types of pollutants involved.

Fertilizers contain nitrates and phosphates. When these are overused, excess amounts can leach into the soil and eventually contaminate the groundwater. This is especially prevalent in areas with porous soil.

Describe how a leaking underground storage tank at a gas station could pollute groundwater. What type of pollutant is involved?

A leaking underground storage tank can release gasoline or other petroleum products into the soil. These chemicals can then seep into the groundwater, contaminating it with hydrocarbons and other harmful substances.

What are some potential health effects of drinking groundwater contaminated with pesticides?

Potential health effects can include: nervous system damage, endocrine disruption, increased risk of certain cancers, and reproductive problems. The specific effects depend on the type and concentration of pesticide.

Explain how improper disposal of household chemicals, such as paint thinner or motor oil, can lead to groundwater pollution.

When household chemicals are poured down the drain or onto the ground, they can seep into the soil and eventually reach the groundwater. These chemicals contain harmful substances that can contaminate the water supply.

Groundwater Pollution from Human Activities

Name: Groundwater Pollution from Human Activities
Author: Insta~Lesson

7th Grade · Science · 45 min

Lesson Preview

Learning Objective

I can explain how human activities can pollute groundwater sources.

Related Lessons

Heat Transfer Explained

Earth's Rotation and Revolution

Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

Related Lessons

Heat Transfer Explained

Earth's Rotation and Revolution

Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

New to Insta~Lesson?

We would love to help you present Insta~Lesson to your colleagues and administrators. Here are a few resources you can use:

Groundwater Pollution from Human Activities

Lesson Preview

Learning Objective

Warm-Up Video

Practice Questions

Exit Ticket

Related Lessons

Heat Transfer Explained

Earth's Rotation and Revolution

Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

Related Lessons

Heat Transfer Explained

Earth's Rotation and Revolution

Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

New to Insta~Lesson?

About Insta~Lesson

How Insta~Lesson Helps Teachers Plan

How Insta~Lesson Supports Instruction Schoolwide