SCI CHP 15: Part 1 - Groundwater

Front

What is the water table?

Back

The water table is the upper surface of the saturated zone in the ground, below which all spaces are filled with water.

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that fills the cracks and spaces in underground soil and rock layers.

Front

What is the saturated zone?

Back

The saturated zone is the area underground where all open spaces are completely filled with water.

Front

What is the unsaturated zone?

Back

The unsaturated zone is the area above the water table where soil and rock are not fully saturated with water.

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

An aquifer is a geological formation that can store and transmit water, often tapped for human use.

Front

What percentage of Earth's freshwater is found in groundwater?

Back

Approximately 30% of Earth's freshwater is found in groundwater.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between surface water and groundwater?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of vegetation in the water cycle?

Back

Vegetation plays a crucial role in the water cycle by absorbing water from the soil and releasing it into the atmosphere through transpiration.

Front

What is infiltration?

Back

Infiltration is the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil.