Aquifer Definitions Flashcards

Ground Water

• Underground water found in soil and permeable rocks.
• Essential for various ecosystems and human usage.

Aquifer

• A structure composed of rock or sediment that holds and allows groundwater flow.
• Vital for water supply and irrigation.

Recharge

• Process of adding water to an aquifer, typically through rainwater infiltration.
• Can be enhanced artificially via injection wells or surface spreading techniques.

Unsaturated Zone

• Layer of soil and rock above the water table where pores contain both air and water.
• Plays a key role in groundwater filtration and retention.

Saturated Zone

• Area beneath the water table where all pores and fractures are filled with water.
• It acts as a source of groundwater for wells and springs.

Permeable

• Characteristic of materials that allow liquids to pass through easily.
• Critical in aquifer function and water movement.

Impermeable

• Describes materials that hinder the flow of liquids.
• Important for preventing contaminant migration and maintaining aquifer integrity.

Water Table

• The upper surface of the saturated zone where the ground is fully saturated with water.
• It fluctuates based on recharge and extraction rates.

Well

• A structure, either dug or drilled, designed to access water, oil, gas, or brine.
• Varies in design based on depth and intended use.

Porosity

• Measurement of the volume of open spaces in rock or sediment expressed as a percentage.
• Influences the storage capacity of groundwater.

Permeability

• The ability of a material to allow liquids to flow through it, significant for groundwater movement.
• Determines how easily water can travel through soil and rock formations.

Pores

• Small openings within a material, such as rock or soil, that affect water movement and storage.
• Essential for defining the porosity and permeability of aquifers.

Micro-organisms

• Microscopic living organisms, often found in soil and water.
• Can play roles in nutrient cycling and water quality.

River

• A considerable natural watercourse, larger than a creek, which flows towards oceans or lakes.
• Integral part of the hydrological cycle and ecosystem health.

Test your knowledge of aquifer terminology with this set of flashcards. Key terms include groundwater, aquifers, and recharge. Perfect for students and anyone interested in hydrology.