Watersheds, Groundwater and Aquifers Flashcard

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 outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

Define groundwater.

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored underground in aquifers and fills the spaces between rocks and soil.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

An aquifer is a natural underground area where large quantities of groundwater fill the spaces between rocks.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Front

Explain the difference between confined and unconfined aquifers.

Back

A confined aquifer is sandwiched between two layers of rock, while an unconfined aquifer has a water table that is open to the surface.

Front

What happens to the water table when too many wells are drilled in one area?

Back

The water table may be drawn down, leading to lower groundwater levels.

Front

Why is aquifer water often cleaner than surface water?

Back

Aquifer water is often cleaner because pollutants are filtered through rock and soil as the water moves underground.

Front

What is the water table?

Back

The water table is the upper surface of the zone of saturation, where the soil or rock is fully saturated with water.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS3-1

Front

How does drought affect groundwater movement?

Back

During drought, groundwater may flow into rivers, streams, or lakes, which can lower the water table.

Front

What role do aquifers play in the water cycle?

Back

Aquifers store groundwater that can be released to surface water bodies, contributing to the water cycle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What is the significance of recharge areas for aquifers?

Back

Recharge areas are locations where water infiltrates the ground and replenishes aquifers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4