Question

Read these two sentences.

Some people believe that droughts are the fault of

nature, which we can't control. These people say that

Earth has always experienced water shortages and that we do not need to worry about the

issue.

How does the author of "A Dire Shortage of Water" reveal a point of view that differs from

the statement above?

A

B

C

She mentions recent scientific discoveries about ocean temperatures, global climate,

and drought.

She refers to historical records of droughts in the western part of the United States.

She explains that ocean temperatures cause drought, but human settlements make the

problem worse.

She reports that the rate of water flow in the Colorado River Basin has decreased to

about one-third of its original rate.

D

Answer 1

The author contradicts the idea that droughts are solely natural events by pointing to human contributions, such as deforestation and increased water demand, as exacerbating factors in water shortages.

Step-by-step explanation:

The author of "A Dire Shortage of Water" provides a point of view that differs from the statement by highlighting the role of human actions in exacerbating drought conditions and water shortages. Rather than seeing droughts as solely natural phenomena beyond our control, the author presents a narrative that acknowledges the impact of deforestation and human water consumption. Cutting down trees leads to drier air and more common droughts due to the loss of water vapor trees contribute to the environment. Similarly, as populations grow, the demands on already scant water resources increase, which worsens water shortages. Dams, often considered a solution, can actually cause ecological damage and offer only a temporary fix. The idea that the only sustainable solution is to reduce water demand underlies the urgency to address the issue not as an unchangeable act of nature but as a crisis that is in part human-induced and can be mitigated through responsible management and policy.

Answer 2

C. She explains that ocean temperatures cause drought, but human settlements make the problem worse.

Step-by-step explanation:

This question refers to the text "A Dire Shortage of Water." In this text, the author explains the reasons why drought is an important problem, as well as the things that we can do to improve such a situation. She also talks about the causes, and while she acknowledges that ocean temperatures can play a role, she also states that humans are partly responsible for this:

"Although ocean temperatures may be an important factor in starting a drought, people are making the problem of water shortages much worse."