阅读理解
The
Earth is losing some of its major freshwater supplies. But the water is not in
lakes or rivers. They are called "aquifers" (含水层). They formed deep underground as the Earth developed. Some
aquifers are so deep that water from very heavy rains cannot reach them through
all the rock and dirt.
Many
aquifers provide irrigation (灌溉)water for
crops. These freshwater are helping farmers in many countries. A new report
says some aquifers are being emptied.
Irrigated
agriculture is responsible for about 80 percent or more of freshwater use
worldwide. A growing part of that comes from underground aquifers because of
dry weather or farmers growing crops in areas with little rainfall.
But
researchers say taking water from aquifers is creating a large problem.
Scientists warn that there is not much that can be done to repair them. It is
difficult to measure groundwater because it is so deep underground. It is also
difficult to know how much water is there and where it is. The water from these
aquifers may not be replaced for hundreds of years.
The
report says seven countries use the most non - renewable groundwater for
agricultural production. The seven are the United States. India, Pakistan,
China, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. The United States is one of the world's major
exporters of food. If China and India use up the groundwater they need to feed
their populations, they would be forced to buy more food. This increased demand
could cause food prices to rise.
The
study shows that, while countries like Somalia are dealing with little
rainfall, the world may someday face an underground drought. It's a really
global issue. All countries around the world are facing this challenge. We
don't have any great solutions or strategies to deal with this. So, at the very
least, we need to have discussions to come up with new ways, new strategies
that recognize this problem and manage how we might adjust our policies (调整
政策).
Any
strategy must balance the short-term need for food for the world with the
long-term survival of the Earth's aquifers.
(1)
Why is it difficult to recover underground water?
A . More water is drawn than it is added.
B . The Earth still lacks rainwater.
C . It is too deep for rainwater to reach.
D . Researchers know nothing about it.
(2)
What's the result of the disappearance of underground water?
A . The US will benefit from it.
B . More rains will reach aquifers.
C . Fresh water in lakes or rivers will also disappear.
D . Food will become more expensive.
(3)
How does the author feel when stating the fact in the text?
A . Worried.
B . Relaxed.
C . Encouraged.
D . Optimistic.
(4)
What may be the best title for the text?
A . No Ways Can Save Underground Water
B . The Earth's Underground Water Is Being Emptied
C . Agriculture Is Destroying Underground Water
D . Everyone's Duty Is to Protect Underground Water
答案: C
D
A
B