The Hydrosphere Flashcard

Front

What is a non-point source of pollution?

Back

A non-point source of pollution refers to diffuse sources of pollution that cannot be traced to a single point, such as fertilizer runoff from lawns.

Front

What is a water molecule made of?

Back

A water molecule is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

Front

Why is water considered a polar molecule?

Back

Water is considered a polar molecule because it has a slightly positive end (hydrogens) and a slightly negative end (oxygen), leading to unequal sharing of electrons.

Front

What percentage of Earth's freshwater is used for drinking?

Back

A very small percentage; most of Earth's freshwater is frozen in glaciers and ice caps.

Front

What are the two main elements that compose water?

Back

Hydrogen and oxygen.

Front

What is the significance of water's polarity in biological systems?

Back

Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many substances, making it a universal solvent essential for life.

Front

What is the difference between point source and non-point source pollution?

Back

Point source pollution comes from a single, identifiable source (like a pipe), while non-point source pollution comes from multiple, diffuse sources.

Front

How does temperature affect the density of water?

Back

As water cools, it becomes denser until it reaches 4°C; below this temperature, it expands and becomes less dense, which is why ice floats.

Front

What role do glaciers and ice caps play in the hydrosphere?

Back

Glaciers and ice caps store a significant portion of Earth's freshwater, impacting sea levels and climate.

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

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