Hydrosphere Unit Test

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The hydrosphere is the combined mass of water found on, under, and above the surface of a planet, including oceans, rivers, lakes, groundwater, and water vapor in the atmosphere.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored beneath the Earth's surface in soil and rock formations, often tapped for drinking water and irrigation.

Front

What factors affect the health of a river system?

Back

Key factors include nitrate levels, turbidity, type of soil, salinity, human consumption, and pH.

Front

What is turbidity?

Back

Turbidity is a measure of how clear water is, often affected by the presence of suspended particles, which can impact aquatic life.

Front

What are phosphates and nitrates?

Back

Phosphates and nitrates are nutrients that can promote plant growth in water bodies but can lead to harmful algal blooms when present in excess.

Front

What is an algal bloom?

Back

An algal bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, often caused by excess nutrients, which can deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life.

Front

Why is surface water more likely to require treatment than groundwater?

Back

Surface water is exposed to a greater variety of contaminants, including pollutants from human activities, making it more likely to require treatment.

Front

What is the importance of setting limits on fish harvesting?

Back

Setting limits on fish harvesting helps to maintain sustainable fish populations and protect marine ecosystems from overfishing.

Front

What is salinity?

Back

Salinity is the concentration of salts in water, which can affect the health of aquatic ecosystems and the organisms that live in them.

Front

What is the role of wetlands in the hydrosphere?

Back

Wetlands act as natural filters, absorbing excess nutrients and pollutants, and providing habitat for diverse wildlife.