2.3. The Global Water Balance Equation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the 'P' in the Global Water Balance Equation represent?

   Hint

   Think about what falls from clouds.

2. 2.

   What does the equation simplify to over the long term?

   Hint

   What happens to ∆S in long-term averages?

3. 3.

   What does the letter R in the Global Water Balance Equation represent?

   • Rainfall
   • Runoff
   • Recycling

   Hint

   It’s the water that does not soak into the ground.

4. 4.

   The simplified equation P ≈ ET + R reflects what aspect of the water balance?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   What happens to ∆S in a balanced system?

5. 5.

   How would you adjust the water balance equation for a region experiencing significantly increased evaporation due to rising temperatures? Describe solutions that could be implemented.

   Hint

   Consider the impact of climate and ways to stabilize water levels.

6. 6.

   Propose a study that investigates climate change impacts on regional water bank storage. What metrics would you evaluate, and what data sources would you use?

   Hint

   Think about sources of climate data and how they tie into your study.