APES 4.6 Watersheds Flashcard

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What is a watershed?

Back

A watershed is an area of land where all the water that falls on it drains into a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What determines the boundaries of a watershed?

Back

The boundaries of a watershed are determined by the topography of the land, including hills, mountains, and valleys.

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What is an aquifer?

Back

An aquifer is an underground layer of sediment or rock that holds water and can supply it to wells and springs.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

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What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is water that flows over the Earth's surface, often after precipitation, and can carry pollutants into water bodies.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What factors affect the flow of water in a watershed?

Back

Factors include the amount of precipitation, elevation of land, and material on the land surface.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the role of vegetation in a watershed?

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Vegetation helps to absorb water, reduce runoff, and prevent soil erosion, thus maintaining the health of the watershed.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

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How does pollution affect watersheds?

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Pollution can contaminate water sources, harm aquatic life, and disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem within a watershed.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Front

What is the significance of topography in a watershed?

Back

Topography influences how water flows, where it collects, and how quickly it drains, affecting the overall health of the watershed.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the difference between surface water and groundwater?

Back

Surface water is found in rivers, lakes, and streams, while groundwater is stored in aquifers beneath the Earth's surface.

Front

What is a divide in the context of watersheds?

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A divide is a geographical boundary that separates one watershed from another, typically a ridge or elevated area.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4