Unit 9: Surface Water & Groundwater

Front

What process brings water into the ground?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water enters the soil and becomes groundwater.

Front

What is the effect of fertilizers entering surface water?

Back

Fertilizers can cause rapid algal growth, which decreases oxygen levels and harms aquatic life.

Front

Why does ice float on water?

Back

Ice floats because water expands when it freezes, making ice less dense than liquid water.

Front

What is an aquitard?

Back

An aquitard is a geological formation that restricts the flow of groundwater, often composed of clay or silt.

Front

What is acid rain?

Back

Acid rain is precipitation that contains high levels of sulfuric or nitric acids, which can damage buildings and statues.

Front

Define surface water.

Back

Surface water is water that collects on the surface of the ground, including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

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

Front

Explain the water cycle.

Back

The water cycle is the continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and infiltration.

Front

What is the role of transpiration in the water cycle?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and released as vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of watersheds?

Back

Watersheds are areas of land that drain into a particular water body, playing a crucial role in water management.