Spring Classification

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What is the definition of a spring?

A spring is a place where water naturally flows out of the ground.

What does the German word 'springer' mean?

'Springer' means 'to leap from the ground.'

Why should you be skeptical about 'natural spring' water?

Springs are not common enough on Earth to support the enormous bottled water industry.

What are aquifers?

Aquifers are underground water reservoirs that store groundwater. Signup and view all the answers

What do aquifers feed on the surface?

Aquifers feed water bodies on the surface, like lakes and rivers. Signup and view all the answers

Are springs common or rare on Earth?

Springs are actually somewhat rare on Earth. Signup and view all the answers

What are the two types of aquifers?

confined and unconfined Signup and view all the answers

What is a spring?

an area where water naturally flows from the ground Signup and view all the answers

What are the five main types of springs?

gravity spring, artesian spring, seepage spring, tubular spring, fissure spring Signup and view all the answers

How are gravity springs formed?

water is pulled down through the ground until it reaches a layer it can't penetrate, then it starts flowing horizontally until it reaches an opening and water comes out as a spring Signup and view all the answers

What are the eight magnitudes used to classify springs based on?

the amount of water they discharge Signup and view all the answers

What are confined aquifers?

aquifers sandwiched between two layers of low permeability soil that do not allow much water to pass through Signup and view all the answers

What are the different types of springs and how are they formed?

The different types of springs are gravity springs, artesian springs, seepage springs, tubular springs, and fissure springs. Gravity springs are formed by gravity pulling the water down through the ground until it reaches an opening. Artesian springs come from the pressure in a confined aquifer. Seepage springs slowly seep water from the ground. Tubular springs occur in limestone cave systems. Fissure springs occur when groundwater comes out through large cracks in the ground. Signup and view all the answers

How are aquifers classified?

Aquifers are classified as either confined or unconfined. Confined aquifers have impermeable layers of rock or clay above and below them, while unconfined aquifers have permeable soil above them, allowing water to filter through. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between a gravity spring and an artesian spring?

The main difference between a gravity spring and an artesian spring is the source of the water. Gravity springs occur when water is pulled down through the ground and moves horizontally until it reaches an opening, while artesian springs occur when water is under pressure in a confined aquifer and comes out of the ground due to the pressure. Signup and view all the answers

Where do seepage springs usually occur?

Seepage springs usually occur in low areas like depressions and valleys. Signup and view all the answers

What are tubular springs made of and where do they occur?

Tubular springs are made of limestone and occur in underground cave systems. Signup and view all the answers

How are fissure springs formed?

Fissure springs are formed when groundwater comes out through large cracks in the ground, known as fissures. Signup and view all the answers

How are springs classified by their size?

Springs are classified by their magnitude, which is the amount of water they discharge. Springs can range from 1st magnitude, which discharges a large amount of water, to 8th magnitude, which discharges a smaller amount of water. Signup and view all the answers