Questions and Answers
What is freshwater?
Freshwater is water that contains little or no dissolved salt.
Where is most of Earth's freshwater found?
Most freshwater is found frozen in ice caps and glaciers.
What process changes water from a liquid to a gas? From a gas to a liquid?
The Water Cycle is the process that changes water from a liquid to a gas, and from a gas to a liquid.
Define infiltration and runoff.
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Describe the substance known as water.
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Why does most precipitation fall into the oceans?
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What are the source and mouth of a river?
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Define tributary and river system.
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How may water enter a pond or lake?
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What is a wetland?
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List three reasons why wetlands should be protected.
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Define groundwater.
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Describe how water enters the ground.
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What is the water table? What might cause it to rise or fall?
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Define aquifer. Where does an aquifer get its water?
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What is the purpose of a well?
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Study Notes
Freshwater Overview
- Freshwater contains minimal to no dissolved salts, distinguishing it from saline water bodies.
- Ice caps and glaciers hold the majority of Earth's freshwater, emphasizing the significance of polar regions in the global water supply.
Water Cycle
- The Water Cycle facilitates the transition of water from liquid to gas (evaporation) and from gas to liquid (condensation), critical for maintaining environmental balance.
Water Movement
- Runoff refers to precipitation that flows over land, potentially transporting pollutants to water bodies, leading to water contamination.
- Infiltration is the process by which water permeates the ground, replenishing soil moisture and groundwater supplies needed for plant growth.
Chemical Composition of Water
- Water is chemically represented as H2O, consisting of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom, highlighting its simple yet essential molecular structure.
Precipitation Patterns
- Oceans receive the majority of precipitation due to covering 71% of Earth's surface, affecting rain distribution and runoff to other water bodies.
River Systems
- A river's source marks its beginning, while the mouth indicates where it flows into a larger body of water.
- Tributaries are smaller streams feeding into larger rivers, forming a comprehensive river system when combined.
Ponds and Lakes
- Ponds and lakes form when downhill-moving water collects in depressions after precipitation, illustrating natural water accumulation processes.
Wetlands Importance
- Wetlands sustain biodiversity by serving as habitats for numerous species, many of which face endangerment due to habitat loss.
- They act as natural water purifiers, filtering sediments and toxins to protect larger aquatic ecosystems.
- Wetlands play a crucial role in flood mitigation by absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall and storms.
Groundwater Basics
- Groundwater resides below the Earth's surface, stored in aquifers and played a pivotal role in terrestrial ecosystems.
- Water enters the ground via seeping through porous materials until it hits impermeable rock, regulating groundwater levels.
Water Table Dynamics
- The water table represents the upper boundary of saturated ground, fluctuating based on surface water infiltration, rainfall, and climatic conditions, rising after heavy rain and lowering during droughts.
Aquifers and Recharge
- Aquifers are underground rock layers saturated with groundwater, often located in porous materials like sandstone, essential for human water supply.
- Water replenishes aquifers via recharge, where surface water seeps into the ground.
Wells and Water Supply
- Wells are constructed to access groundwater, providing a reliable water source for communities, showcasing the importance of underground water resources throughout history.
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Description
Test your knowledge on freshwater concepts with these flashcards from Unit 13. Explore definitions, sources, and the Water Cycle. Perfect for reinforcing your understanding of Earth's freshwater resources.