Question

some people think hydropower should be used to supply all of the electricity for the united states. which of the following statements describes a flaw in this plan?

a. hydropower is used only as transportation fuel.
b. hydropower can be used only in the desert.
c. hydropower contributes to the greenhouse effect.
d. hydropower can harm native aquatic populations.

Explanation:

• Option A: Hydropower is mainly for electricity generation, not just transportation fuel.
• Option B: Hydropower is used where there is water flow (rivers, dams etc.), not only in deserts.
• Option C: Hydropower is a relatively low - greenhouse - gas - emitting energy source compared to fossil fuels.
• Option D: Building dams for hydropower can disrupt aquatic habitats, harm fish migration (e.g., blocking salmon runs), and change water flow patterns which can harm native aquatic populations.

Answer:

D. Hydropower can harm native aquatic populations.