Deserts and Temperate Rainforests

Front

What is a watershed?

Back

A watershed is an area of land that drains rainwater and snow into a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It acts like a superhero for the environment by providing habitats, filtering water, and supporting agriculture.

Front

What role does a hydrologist play in environmental science?

Back

A hydrologist studies the Earth's water resources, including the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the environment.

Front

How does urbanization affect water movement in watersheds?

Back

In urban watersheds, water moves faster and with more volume due to impervious surfaces like roads and buildings, which prevent water absorption into the ground.

Front

What are the primary sources of freshwater?

Back

Freshwater comes from rivers, lakes, underground aquifers, and rainwater.

Front

What is the rain shadow effect?

Back

The rain shadow effect occurs when mountains block the passage of rain-producing weather systems, causing one side to receive heavy rainfall while the other side remains dry.

Front

Why is Western Washington wetter than Eastern Washington?

Back

Western Washington receives more rainfall due to the rain shadow effect of the Cascade Range, which traps moisture-laden air.

Front

What is the significance of groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is a crucial source of drinking water and irrigation, stored in underground aquifers, and plays a vital role in the hydrological cycle.

Front

Define impervious surfaces.

Back

Impervious surfaces are materials that do not allow water to penetrate, such as concrete and asphalt, leading to increased runoff and reduced groundwater recharge.

Front

What is the hydrological cycle?

Back

The hydrological cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

Front

How do plants contribute to the water cycle?

Back

Plants contribute to the water cycle through transpiration, where they release water vapor into the atmosphere from their leaves.