Unit 9: Surface Water & Groundwater

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

An underground geologic formation that can store and yield water.

Front

What is an aquitard?

Back

A geologic formation that restricts the flow of groundwater, often composed of clay or other impermeable materials.

Front

Which river is likely to contain the most biodiversity?

Back

The Green River.

Front

What is a key property of water that allows it to expand as a solid?

Back

Water expands when it freezes due to the hydrogen bonding between molecules.

Front

Why is the mesquite tree controversial in arid climates?

Back

It consumes too much water, which can lead to depletion of local water resources.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Water that is stored beneath the Earth's surface in soil and rock formations.

Front

What is surface water?

Back

Water that collects on the surface of the ground, including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.

Front

Define drawdown in the context of groundwater.

Back

The lowering of the water table or potentiometric surface due to pumping or evaporation.

Front

What is the significance of high specific heat in water?

Back

It allows water to absorb and release large amounts of heat without significant temperature changes, stabilizing climates.

Front

What is the pH of pure water?

Back

Neutral, with a pH of 7.