North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam

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Why might the water table drop?

Due to heavy rainfall
Due to excessive groundwater extraction
Because of seasonal changes in temperature
Due to increased plant growth

The correct answer is: Due to excessive groundwater extraction

The water table might drop significantly due to excessive groundwater extraction. When water is extracted from underground aquifers at a rate faster than it can be replenished through natural processes like rainfall or infiltration, the water level in the aquifer decreases, leading to a drop in the water table. This situation often occurs in areas where irrigation, industrial uses, or municipal water supply demands exceed the natural replenishment rate. In contrast, heavy rainfall typically raises the water table as more water is added to the system. Seasonal changes in temperature can affect surface water availability and evaporation but do not directly cause the water table to drop. Increased plant growth could potentially deplete some water through transpiration, but this effect is minor compared to the substantial impact of excessive groundwater extraction. Understanding these dynamics is essential for managing water resources sustainably.