Short Answers 6 - 10

What is the difference between CAPACITY and COMPETENCE of a stream?

• Capacity - How much sediment a stream can carry

• Competence - How big the particles are (that a stream can carry)

How might these values (capacity and competence) change between the SPRING MELT and LATE FALL in places like California?

• Spring melt - More water/Strong flow

• Late fall - Less water/Weak flow

Explain the differences between Dissolved, Suspended, and Bed load?

What are the different ways a bed load can move?

1. Dissolved bed - Materials dissolved in water

2. Suspended bed - Small particles floating through the water

3. Bed load - Sediments moving along the bottom

Bed load moves: Sliding, Bouncing, Rolling

Explain the difference between Porosity and Permeability? Which one is more important in an aquifer?

• Porosity - How much empty space a rock/sediment has for water

• Permeability - The ease of flow (How easily water can flow through those spaces)

Permeability is more important! (Water needs to flow)

List some hazards associated with over pumping groundwater?

• Water table drops

• Wells can dry up

• Ground can sink

• Saltwater can enter groundwater

How do Artesian wells, like natural springs work?

A well where underground water rises due to pressure