P1A 01Understanding Drainage Basins

Front

Why is the drainage basin considered an open system?

Back

A drainage basin is considered an open system because it has inputs, outputs, flows, and stores.

Front

Examples of outputs in a drainage basin

Back

Outputs in a drainage basin include water leaving the system, such as through evaporation or river discharge.

Front

Define flows in a drainage basin

Back

Flows are defined as the movement of water within the drainage basin system, including rivers and streams.

Front

Definition of a drainage basin.

Back

A drainage basin is a surface area drained by a specific stream, including both surface and subsurface water.

Front

Definition of the source of a river.

Back

The point where the river begins, often in highland areas.

Front

Infiltration

Back

The process of water entering the soil.

Front

Precipitation

Back

Any moisture that falls on the ground such as rain or snowmelt.

Front

Evaporation

Back

The process of turning from liquid into vapor.

Front

Throughflow

Back

Water that moves as soil moisture in the unsaturated near the surface.

Front

River run-off

Back

Where the stream flows out of the drainage basin, such as where it flows into the sea or a lake.