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Flip to reveal answersWhich sector uses the most freshwater globally, and about how much?
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All 10 Flashcards ā Water use by sector
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Question
Which sector uses the most freshwater globally, and about how much?
Answer
Agriculture uses the most freshwater globally, about 70% (mainly for irrigation).
š” Hint
Irrigation dominates.
Question
Give the typical global split of freshwater use by sector.
Answer
Agriculture about 70%, industry about 20%, and domestic about 10% (varies by country).
š” Hint
70ā20ā10.
Question
What is the biggest agricultural use of freshwater?
Answer
Irrigation is the biggest agricultural use of freshwater.
š” Hint
Mostly irrigation.
Question
What are the three main sectors of freshwater use?
Answer
Agricultural (irrigation/livestock), industrial (manufacturing/cooling), and domestic (drinking/sanitation).
š” Hint
AāIāD.
Question
Why does agriculture often dominate water use in LEDCs?
Answer
Because economies rely more on farming, irrigation can be less efficient, and industry/domestic consumption per person is often lower.
š” Hint
Farming + inefficiency.
Question
In LEDCs, which sector often dominates water use and why (one line)?
Answer
Agriculture dominates because farming is a larger part of the economy and irrigation is often less efficient.
š” Hint
Farming focus.
Question
Give two reasons water use patterns differ between countries.
Answer
Differences in climate (irrigation need) and economic structure (industry vs agriculture) change sector demand (also technology and diet).
š” Hint
Climate + development.
Question
In many MEDCs, which sectors tend to be higher and why?
Answer
Industrial and domestic use tend to be higher due to manufacturing, services, and higher per-person consumption.
š” Hint
More industry + lifestyle.
Question
Name two ways technology can reduce water use in agriculture.
Answer
Drip irrigation and improved irrigation scheduling/efficiency reduce water waste.
š” Hint
Reduce losses.
Question
What is a strong exam approach when comparing water use between countries?
Answer
State the dominant sector(s) and explain why using clear drivers like climate, crop type, seasonal demand, and irrigation efficiency.
š” Hint
Explain drivers.
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Full study notes for Water use by sector
Topic 4.2 hub
Water access, use and security
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