6.8 Watersheds (A7, B2, B6)

Front

What is a watershed?

Back

A watershed is an area of land where all the water that falls as precipitation drains into a common body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Front

What are biotic factors in an ecosystem?

Back

Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Front

What are abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

Back

Abiotic factors are the nonliving components of an ecosystem, such as water, soil, air, and climate.

Front

What is a meander in a river?

Back

A meander is a curve or bend in a river, often formed by the erosion of the riverbank.

Front

What is a riparian buffer?

Back

A riparian buffer is a vegetated area near a stream or river that helps slow down runoff, prevents erosion, and filters pollutants.

Front

What is a divide in geography?

Back

A divide is an area of higher elevation that separates two watersheds.

Front

What is the purpose of floodplains?

Back

Floodplains are flat areas adjacent to rivers that are prone to flooding, providing natural storage for excess water and supporting diverse ecosystems.

Front

What is the Gulf of Mexico in relation to watersheds?

Back

The Gulf of Mexico is a major watershed system that collects water from various rivers and streams in the southeastern United States.

Front

What is a tributary?

Back

A tributary is a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river.

Front

What is the significance of watersheds in environmental conservation?

Back

Watersheds are crucial for managing water resources, preventing flooding, and maintaining healthy ecosystems.