Introduction to Hydrology

Hydrology

Encompasses the occurrence, distribution, movement, and properties of the waters of the earth.

Hydrologic Cycle

global sun-driven process whereby water is transported from the oceans to the atmosphere to the land back to the sea.

Hydrology

Encompasses the occurrence, distribution, movement, and properties of the waters of the earth

Hydrologic Cycle

global sun-drive process whereby water is transported from the oceans to the atmosphere to the land back to the sea

[P] Precipitation

rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground

[I] Infiltration

the process by which water on the ground surface enters the soil

[E] Evaporation

the process that changes liquid water to gaseous water

[T] Transpiration

the process of water vapor being released from plants and soil

[R] Surface Runoff

travels over the ground surface and through surface channels to leave a catchment area called a drainage basin or watershed

[G] Ground Water Flow

movement of water underground

[ET] Evapotranspiration

the sum of all processes by which water moves from the land surface to the atmosphere via evaporation and transpiration

Hydrologic Budget

Accounting of the inflow, outflow, and storage of water in a designated hydrologic system