Question

Directions: The critical reasoning question is based on short arguments, a set of statements, or a plan of action. For each question, select the best answer of the choices given and explain why the chosen answer is the right fit.

Statement: Various human activity has led to the water contamination and significant draining of about one-third of the planet’s largest underground water reserves and it is unclear how much fluid remains in them.

Which of the following can be the probable reason(s) for the decline of the water reserve?

1. Reduction in the usage of underground water reserves
2. Frequent pumping of water for farming
3. Decline of population all around the word
4. Excessive aforestation 
5. All of these

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Frequent pumping of water for farming

Reduced usage of underground water can never lead to the decline of the water reserve. Instead, this might help preserve the water reserves. Therefore, option 1 is eliminated.

Pumping of water from the soil faster too often does not give the soil enough time to replenish its water reserve. This can lead to a decline of the water reserve in the long run. Thus, option 2 is correct.

The decline of population in the world will lead to less consumption of water, consequently, reducing the burden on the underground reserves. Thus, option 3 is not valid.

Excessive afforestation will help in the formation of a stabilized water table. Therefore, option 4 is eliminated.

Hence, option 2 is the correct answer.