ES M7-3: Groundwater

Front

What is groundwater?

Back

Groundwater is water that is stored beneath the Earth's surface in soil and rock formations, known as aquifers.

Front

What are recharge areas?

Back

Recharge areas are regions where surface water infiltrates the ground to replenish an aquifer.

Front

How does urban development affect recharge areas?

Back

Urban development often reduces the effectiveness of recharge areas by increasing impermeable surfaces.

Front

What is the water table?

Back

The water table is the boundary between the zone of aeration (unsaturated soil) and the zone of saturation (where groundwater is found).

Front

How does precipitation influence groundwater levels?

Back

Precipitation increases groundwater levels by replenishing aquifers.

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

An aquifer is a geological formation that can store and transmit water, allowing it to be extracted for use.

Front

What is the zone of saturation?

Back

The zone of saturation is the area below the water table where all the spaces between soil and rock are filled with water.

Front

What is the significance of impermeable surfaces in urban areas?

Back

Impermeable surfaces prevent water from infiltrating the ground, reducing recharge to aquifers.

Front

What factors affect the flow velocity of groundwater?

Back

The flow velocity of groundwater is influenced by the permeability of the soil and rock, not the height of the water table.

Front

What is the difference between surface water and groundwater?

Back

Surface water is found in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, while groundwater is stored underground in aquifers.