Watersheds Flashcard

Front

What is the largest watershed in the United States?

Back

Mississippi River Watershed

Front

What is the process called when rock or soil is moved to another location by water, wind, or ice?

Back

Erosion

Front

Define a watershed.

Back

An area of land where the surface water and groundwater drain into a particular body of water.

Front

What should city planners consider when drilling into an aquifer?

Back

Drilling well below the water table.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Water from precipitation that moves across the ground surface before ending up in a stream, creek, or bayou.

Front

What is the term for the boundary that separates different watersheds?

Back

Drainage Divide

Front

What is an aquifer?

Back

A geological formation that can store and transmit water.

Front

What is the difference between surface water and groundwater?

Back

Surface water is found in rivers, lakes, and streams, while groundwater is found beneath the Earth's surface in aquifers.

Front

What role do watersheds play in the water cycle?

Back

Watersheds collect precipitation and channel it to bodies of water, influencing local ecosystems.

Front

What is the impact of urbanization on watersheds?

Back

Urbanization can increase runoff and decrease water quality due to pollution.