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1C. Rivers and Human Activity (i) Explain one way that rivers may be of economic use to people - Junior Cycle Geography - Question 1C - 2019
Question 1C
1C. Rivers and Human Activity (i) Explain one way that rivers may be of economic use to people. (ii) Explain one way that people pollute rivers.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1C. Rivers and Human Activity (i) Explain one way that rivers may be of economic use to people - Junior Cycle Geography - Question 1C - 2019
Step 1
Explain one way that rivers may be of economic use to people.
Answer
Rivers can be of significant economic use by facilitating the transportation of heavy and bulky goods. This is particularly evident in trade, where rivers serve as natural highways, allowing for the movement of large quantities of products between cities and regions. Furthermore, rivers are crucial for generating hydroelectric power, providing a renewable energy source that supports various industries and households. Additionally, rivers are essential for irrigation, supplying water to agricultural lands, thereby enhancing food production and contributing to the economy.
Step 2
Explain one way that people pollute rivers.
Answer
One common way that people pollute rivers is through the runoff of slurry from agricultural fields. When it rains, fertilizers and pesticides used on crops can wash into nearby rivers, leading to chemical contamination. Moreover, industries may dump chemicals directly into rivers, further exacerbating pollution levels. This not only affects the water quality but also disrupts the ecosystem, harming aquatic life and impacting communities that rely on these water sources.