35.3.5. Organic Matter and Cementing Agents

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is organic matter?

   Hint

   Think about what compost is made of.

2. 2.

   Name a cementing agent.

   Hint

   What minerals are often found in rocks?

3. 3.

   What is the primary effect of organic matter on groundwater?

   • Increases yield
   • Decreases yield
   • No effect

   Hint

   Think about how decaying material behaves in water.

4. 4.

   True or False: Cementing agents can improve specific yield.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens when substances stick together.

5. 5.

   Given an aquifer with high organic content, design a strategy to maintain specific yield.

   Hint

   Consider methods used in agriculture to maintain soil health.

6. 6.

   Analyze the long-term effects of cementing agents on regional water supply in a town reliant on aquifers.

   Hint

   What alternatives might the town explore if their aquifer becomes less productive?