Earth Science: Groundwater Zones and Soil

What happens to water when it hits the surface and the soil is completely saturated?

• It evaporates into the atmosphere.

• It becomes groundwater immediately.

• It stays on the surface indefinitely.

• It travels as runoff.

What is the zone of saturation?

• A layer that is always dry.

• A layer where all pore spaces are filled with water.

• A layer where soil particles are filled with air.

• A layer that allows water to evaporate quickly.

How does the water table relate to lakes and streams?

• It is the same as the surface of lakes and streams.

• It is always higher than lakes and streams.

• It is always lower than lakes and streams.

• It is unrelated to lakes and streams.

What happens to the zone of saturation during a drought?

• It disappears completely.

• It becomes smaller.

• It remains unchanged.

• It becomes larger.

What are soil horizons?

• Layers of soil that never change.

• Layers of soil that are all identical.

• Layers of soil that are only found in deserts.

• Layers of soil with different compositions.

What is the primary composition of the O Horizon?

• Mineral-rich subsoil.

• Impermeable rock.

• Organic material and humus.

• Pure sand.

Which horizon is known as the subsoil?

• B Horizon

• A Horizon

• O Horizon

• C Horizon

What is the B Horizon also known as?

• Bedrock

• Residual soil layer

• Topsoil

• Humus

Which horizon is made up of impermeable rock?

• A Horizon

• C Horizon

• O Horizon

• B Horizon

Why is the O Horizon considered important?

• It is the deepest layer.

• It is made of impermeable rock.

• It has a high organic content.

• It is the driest layer.