Water Quality 2 Review

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary regarding water quality, including definitions related to pollution, ecosystem health, and chemical properties.

Turbidity

A measure of how clear water is, often affected by suspended particles.

Eutrophication

The process caused by excess nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, leading to algal blooms and low oxygen levels in water.

pH

A measure of hydrogen ion concentration in water, indicating its acidity or alkalinity.

Non-point pollution

Pollution that does not originate from a single, identifiable source, often resulting from runoff.

Point source pollution

Pollution that can be traced to a specific source, such as a factory or wastewater treatment plant.

Acid rain

Precipitation that contains higher than normal amounts of sulfuric or nitric acids due to atmospheric pollution.

Conductivity

A measure of water's ability to conduct electricity, which often correlates with the concentration of ions in the water.

Nutrients

Elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus that are essential for plant growth but can lead to pollution when in excess.

Species diversity

The variety of different species within a specific habitat or ecosystem.

Algal bloom

Rapid increase in the population of algae in aquatic systems, often due to nutrient pollution.

BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand)

A measure of the amount of oxygen that microorganisms will consume while decomposing organic matter in water.

Heavy metals

Metallic elements that can be toxic to organisms and are often found in polluted water.

Invertebrates

Animals without a backbone, often used as indicators of water quality.

Phosphorus Cycle

The process by which phosphorus moves through the environment, including water, soil, and living organisms.

Nitrogen Cycle

The series of processes by which nitrogen and its compounds are interconverted in the environment and in living organisms.

Transpiration

The process by which water is absorbed by plant roots and then evaporates from the plant's leaves.

Hydromodification

The alteration of the natural hydrology of a water body or watershed, often through human activities.

Aquifer

A geological formation that can yield water to wells and springs, often acting as a reservoir.

Alkaline

Having a pH greater than 7, indicating a basic or less acidic condition.

pH probe

A device used to measure the pH level of water.

Hydrologic Cycle

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Tannins

Plant-derived organic compounds that can influence water color and acidity.

Atmospheric deposition

The transfer of pollutants from the atmosphere to the Earth’s surface, often impacting water quality.

Urban runoff

Water that flows over urban areas, often carrying pollutants into waterways.