Hydrology Fundamentals

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What is hydrology, and what aspects of water does it study?

Hydrology is the study of water, encompassing its occurrence, movement, distribution, and properties on Earth and its relationship with the environment within each phase of the hydrologic cycle.

What are the two main types of hydrology?

Scientific hydrology and engineering/applied hydrology.

What is the hydrologic cycle, and what processes does it entail?

The hydrologic cycle is the process that involves various aspects of water related to the Earth, including precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.

What is a catchment area, and how is its areal extent measured?

A catchment area is the area of land draining into a stream or water course at a given location, and its areal extent is measured using a planimeter to trace the ridge on a topographic map. Signup and view all the answers

Why is water essential for life on Earth?

Water is essential for life on Earth because all plants and animals need it to survive. Signup and view all the answers

How does hydrology differ from hydraulics?

Hydrology examines the occurrence, distribution, movement, and properties of water on the Earth's surface, in the soil, and within the atmosphere, whereas hydraulics is concerned with the mechanical properties of water. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of building a dam across a river in hydroelectric power plants?

To create a reservoir of water at a higher elevation Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of penstocks in hydroelectric power generation?

Penstocks are channels and pipes that flow water from the reservoir to the turbines. Signup and view all the answers

How is mechanical energy converted into electrical energy in hydroelectric power plants?

Through the principles of electromagnetic induction in generators coupled with turbines. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of irrigation in agricultural practices?

To supplement natural precipitation and ensure consistent crop yields in regions where rainfall is insufficient or unreliable. Signup and view all the answers

What is the end result of the hydroelectric power generation process?

Electricity is transmitted through power lines to homes, businesses, and industries for various uses. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in generating hydroelectricity?

Water collection in a reservoir created by building a dam across a river or by utilizing a natural water source. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of water source identification in engineering hydrology?

To assess available water sources for irrigation, including surface water bodies and groundwater aquifers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of hydraulic design in irrigation engineering?

To design irrigation systems that efficiently convey water from its source to the agricultural fields or landscapes to be irrigated. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of water distribution in irrigation systems?

To evenly distribute water across the irrigated area to meet the specific water requirements of different crops or vegetation types. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of engineers in water management for irrigation?

To develop strategies for managing water resources effectively, including scheduling irrigation timings, optimizing water application rates, and implementing water-saving technologies. Signup and view all the answers

How does deforestation impact engineering hydrology?

Deforestation significantly impacts the study of the movement, distribution, and management of water on Earth. Signup and view all the answers

What is not directly related to irrigation in the context of engineering hydrology?

The transmission of generated electricity through power lines to homes, businesses, and industries. Signup and view all the answers

What is the process called when water changes from a gas to a liquid?

Condensation Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of moisture in the atmosphere comes from evaporation from oceans and other bodies of water?

90% Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the transfer of water from the surface of the Earth to the atmosphere?

Evaporation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary way atmospheric water returns to the surface of the Earth?

Precipitation Signup and view all the answers

How do plants contribute to the water cycle?

Through transpiration Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the process by which plants take up liquid water from the soil and release water vapor into the air?

Transpiration Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between infiltration and percolation in the context of groundwater?

Infiltration is the downward entry of water into the surface of soil and rock, whereas percolation is the downward movement of water through soil and rock underground. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes drizzle from other forms of precipitation?

Drizzle is characterized by tiny water droplets that appear to float in the air. Signup and view all the answers

How does surface runoff differ from subsurface runoff?

Surface runoff is the overland flow of water toward streams, while subsurface runoff is the rapid flow of water toward streams that occurs below the surface. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between snow and sleet?

Snow consists of ice crystals in a flaky form, whereas sleet is frozen raindrops formed when rainfall passes through subfreezing air. Signup and view all the answers

What is groundwater, and where is it stored?

Groundwater is the liquid water stored in the pores, fractures, and spaces between rock particles in the ground. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of droplets that form drizzle versus those that form infiltration?

Drizzle is formed by droplets 0.2-0.5 mm in size, while infiltration is characterized by droplets 0.5 mm or greater in size. Signup and view all the answers