Hydrosphere Vocabulary Flashcard

Front

What is the process of passing into or through a substance by filtering or permeating?

Back

Infiltration is the process where water enters the soil or a substance, filtering through it.

Front

What is the term for water located below the Earth's surface?

Back

Groundwater refers to water that is found underground in aquifers and soil.

Front

What are openings in the ocean floor that release heat?

Back

Hydrothermal vents are openings in the ocean floor that emit heated water, often rich in minerals.

Front

What is the surface layer of the ocean that receives sunlight?

Back

The photic zone is the upper layer of the ocean where sunlight penetrates, allowing photosynthesis.

Front

What is the term for areas of land that drain into a stream, river, lake, or other body of water?

Back

A watershed is an area of land that channels rainfall and snowmelt to creeks, streams, and rivers.

Front

What is the measure of the saltiness of water?

Back

Salinity is the concentration of salts in water, typically measured in parts per thousand.

Front

What is an underground layer of water-bearing rock?

Back

An aquifer is a geological formation that can store and transmit groundwater.

Front

What is the term for the zone in a body of water where light cannot penetrate?

Back

The aphotic zone is the part of a water body where sunlight does not reach, inhibiting photosynthesis.

Front

What is the process by which water vapor turns into liquid water?

Back

Condensation is the process where water vapor cools and changes back into liquid form.

Front

What is the term for the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth?

Back

The water cycle describes the journey of water as it evaporates, condenses, and precipitates.