WHERE THAT GLASS OF WATER COMES FROM: Drinking water can come from either ground water sources, via wells, or surface water sources, such as rivers, lakes and streams. Most U.S. water systems in small and rural areas use a ground water source, while large metropolitan areas tend to rely on surface water. Causes of contamination can range from agricultural runoff to improper use of household chemicals.
STEREOTYPES OF WHO CAN BE A SCIENTIST: Many people have an image of who scientists are, and who can become a scientist. The truth is the types of people who become scientists, engineers, and mathematicians are widely varied, including women and men of many backgrounds. They can work in many settings including offices, forests, and laboratories. Sociologists have shown that many people have a positive view of scientists and that those who would approve of a child of either sex becoming a scientist has increased. Stereotypes from popular culture and other sources can influence the idea of what a scientist is and those stereotypes can influence people to steer them both toward and away from pursuing careers in science.
The American Geophysical Union contributed to the information contained in the TV portion of this report.