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Clean water is an essential service to the home - Junior Cycle Home Economics - Question 5 - 2016
Question 5
Clean water is an essential service to the home. (a) Name three treatments carried out on water before it enters the mains supply to the home. Give the reason for e... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Clean water is an essential service to the home - Junior Cycle Home Economics - Question 5 - 2016
Step 1
Name three treatments carried out on water before it enters the mains supply to the home. Give the reason for each treatment named.
Answer
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Screening: This treatment involves removing large objects from the water to ensure that they do not disrupt the water supply system.
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Settling: This process allows solid particles such as stones and grit to settle at the bottom, ensuring the water is clearer when it moves to the next treatment stage.
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Filtration: During filtration, the water is passed through filters that remove any remaining small particles and bacteria, ensuring safe drinking water.
Step 2
Suggest ways in which water can be conserved in the home.
Answer
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Repair leaks and dripping taps: Fixing any leaks can greatly reduce water waste.
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Avoid washing under a running tap: Use a bowl or bucket for washing, which can save significant amounts of water.
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Use economy/half-load options in washing machines and dishwashers: This allows for smaller loads to be washed without wasting water.
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Only boil required amounts: When boiling water, only use the amount needed to reduce excess boiling.
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Take shorter showers: Limiting shower time can significantly decrease water usage.
Step 3
Name two different causes of water pollution and state how each one affects the environment.
Answer
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Oil spills: These can cause significant harm to marine life, leading to bad smells and dead fish as the oil affects the oxygen levels in the water.
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Human sewage: If untreated, human sewage can introduce harmful pathogens into water bodies, leading to serious health issues and illness in both wildlife and humans.
Step 4
Describe the procedure to follow when water pipes burst in the home.
Answer
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Turn off the water at the mains: This stops the flow of water and reduces flooding.
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Call a plumber: Contact a professional plumber to assess and fix the burst.
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Drain the system: Empty the affected pipes to prevent further leaks.
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Turn off central heating system: This prevents further damage to the property and the heating system.