Desalination is a process that removes salt and other minerals from seawater, making it safe to drink. This technology is becoming increasingly important as the world's population grows and the demand for freshwater increases. The process is especially vital for communities in dry regions where natural freshwater is limited.
There are several methods of desalination, but the most common is reverse osmosis. This technique uses high pressure to push saltwater through a special membrane that blocks salt particles but allows water molecules to pass. The result is pure, drinkable water.
However, desalination has some significant challenges. The process requires a large amount of energy, which makes it expensive. Furthermore, the concentrated salt waste produced, known as brine, can harm the local marine environment if it is not managed carefully. Therefore, while desalination provides a critical solution to water scarcity, scientists are working to make the technology more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Câu hỏi luyện tập
1. What is the main goal of the desalination process?
2. In reverse osmosis, what is used to push saltwater through a membrane?
3. According to the passage, what is a major disadvantage of desalination?
4. What is the name for the concentrated salt waste that desalination produces?
5. The passage states that desalination is especially vital for communities in what kind of regions?
6. What are scientists trying to improve about desalination technology?