Questions and Answers
What is precipitation?
What is evaporation?
The change of a liquid to a gas.
What is condensation?
Gas to liquid.
What is transpiration?
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What is the hydrologic cycle?
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What is infiltration?
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What is runoff?
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What is root uptake?
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What does the prefix 'hydro' mean?
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What is an aquitard?
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What is a reservoir?
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What does permeable mean?
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What does impermeable mean?
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What is an aquifer?
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What is another definition of infiltration?
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What is a contaminant?
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What is the atmosphere?
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What is the sun?
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What is water vapor?
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What is groundwater?
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What are five uses of water?
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Study Notes
Precipitation
- Refers to water falling from clouds, encompassing forms such as hail, snow, sleet, and rain.
- Occurs when clouds become heavy and the atmosphere cannot support the moisture.
Evaporation
- The process where liquid water transforms into vapor due to the sun's heat.
- A vital step in the hydrologic cycle, contributing to atmospheric moisture.
Condensation
- The transformation of gas back into liquid as it cools, resulting in cloud formation.
- Plays a critical role in the water cycle by facilitating precipitation.
Transpiration
- Evaporation of water from plant leaves contributes to the water cycle.
- Plants release purified water vapor, which can enter the atmosphere.
Hydrologic Cycle (Water Cycle)
- Describes the continuous movement of water in the hydrosphere.
- Involves evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and both surface and groundwater runoff and infiltration.
Infiltration (Seepage)
- The process by which water flows from the land surface into the subsurface soil.
- Essential for replenishing groundwater supplies as rainwater soaks into the ground.
Runoff
- Occurs when excess water flows over the surface without being absorbed into soil.
- This surplus water eventually makes its way to rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Root Uptake
- The mechanism through which plant roots absorb water from the soil.
- Critical for plant health and growth, supporting photosynthesis and other biological functions.
Meaning of the Prefix "Hydro"
- "Hydro" translates to "water," indicating its relation to various water processes and systems.
Aquitard
- Consists of impermeable materials that do not allow water storage or movement.
- Prevents the upward flow of water to aquifers and can impede groundwater recharge.
Reservoir
- A storage area, usually a lake, created to hold water for human use.
- Essential for providing drinking water, irrigation, and recreational activities.
Permeable
- Describes materials that facilitate the flow of liquids through them.
- Important for groundwater movement and the effectiveness of aquifers.
Impermeable
- Refers to materials that do not permit the passage of liquids.
- Affects water movement and storage in the hydrological context.
Aquifer
- Comprises permeable materials capable of collecting and storing water.
- Serves as crucial sources of groundwater for various uses.
Infiltration
- Similar to seepage, it indicates the process of water soaking through soil or permeable materials.
- Important for groundwater replenishment and ecological balance.
Contaminant
- Any substance that introduces impurities or pollution into a medium.
- Particularly significant in discussions about water quality and safety.
Atmosphere
- The layer of gases surrounding a planet or moon, composed of various elements.
- Crucial for sustaining life, weather patterns, and the hydrologic cycle.
Sun
- A typical star that provides light and heat essential for supporting life on Earth.
- Drives the processes of evaporation and photosynthesis.
Water Vapor
- The gaseous state of water, essential for cloud formation and precipitation.
- Plays a key role in atmospheric moisture and climate dynamics.
Groundwater
- Water located underground, filling cracks and spaces in soil and rock layers.
- A significant source of fresh water, used for drinking and irrigation.
Uses of Water
- Vital for drinking, cleaning, livestock needs, energy generation, and industrial purposes.
- Highlights the importance of water in daily life and socioeconomic activities.
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Explore the key terms related to the Hydrologic Cycle, including precipitation, evaporation, and condensation. These flashcards will help you understand the processes that affect water in our environment systematically.