The Ogallala Aquifer, or High Plains aquifer, located in the central United States is one of the largest aquifers in the world. It is shown in blue in the picture below.

Question

Image courtesy of USGS

Scientists estimate that the formation of the Ogallala Aquifer began millions of years ago, when the Rocky Mountains were still tectonically active. Over time, sediment from the Rocky Mountains eroded and was deposited over rivers and valleys on the eastern side of the mountains, eventually covering them and trapping water below the surface to form the aquifer.

Today the Ogallala Aquifer is a very important source of freshwater, supplying about 30% of the total groundwater used for irrigation in the United States. The Ogallala Aquifer also provides drinking water to many people who live in the central United States.

Based on the information above, which of the following is true?
A.
Geologic processes that occur in modern times did not occur earlier in Earth's history.
B.
Geologic processes have very little impact on the distribution of resources on Earth.
C.
Past geologic processes have resulted in an even distribution of resources on Earth.
D.
Past geologic processes impact the present-day location of resources on Earth.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

D. Past geologic processes impact the present-day location of resources on Earth.

This statement aligns with the information provided about the formation of the Ogallala Aquifer and how geological processes from millions of years ago have resulted in the aquifer being a significant source of freshwater today.