The area shown on this cross section will experience subsidence from groundwater withdrawal.Which of the following statements is likely to be true about the subsidence?
A) The amount of subsidence will be constant across the area.
B) The aquifer will regain its porosity once the water is replaced.
C) The subsidence can be reversed (undone)by pumping in saltwater.
D) None of these.

Question

The area shown on this cross section will experience subsidence from groundwater withdrawal.Which of the following statements is likely to be true about the subsidence? 
A) The amount of subsidence will be constant across the area. 
B) The aquifer will regain its porosity once the water is replaced. 
C) The subsidence can be reversed (undone)by pumping in saltwater. 
D) None of these.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

None of these statements is likely to be true about subsidence caused by groundwater withdrawal. Choice A is unlikely because subsidence tends to be more severe in certain pockets or areas of the affected region rather than evenly distributed. Choice B is unlikely because subsidence leads to permanent compaction and settling of the soil layers, which cannot be reversed easily. Choice C is also unlikely because pumping in saltwater can actually worsen the subsidence by introducing additional stresses and chemical reactions that further destabilize the soil and rock formations.

The Area Shown on This Cross Section Will Experience Subsidence