1.

2. The Maldives are a series of islands, with the highest point on any island being 4 meters. This makes them susceptible to many things. Since most of their water is groundwater stored below sea level, it can easily be contaminated by saltwater flooding over the island and getting into the groundwater.

3. a. The difference of nutrients between saltwater and freshwater. Depending on the nutrients, it can cause eutrophication of the freshwater.

b. The damaging of sewer systems on the islands, causing it to leak into the freshwater and change the nutrient balance.

4. Since the Maldives are islands, they are going to have many more troubles regarding water scarcity than another country, such as the United States. They have to work harder to conserve it, and it’s much easier to wipe out with something like a tsunami. Another factor that makes it difficult for the Maldives is that they are a less economically developed country, while the United States is a much more economically developed country. We have many many more resources than they do. They have a tougher time managing water and less resources to deal with that management. So, by 2050 it is going to get even harder to manage their water and keep a stable supply.

5. (See diagram below)