Human Impacts on Stream Hydrology

These flashcards cover essential concepts from the lecture on human impacts on stream hydrology, including hydrological terms, processes, and effects of human activities.

Discharge

The volume of water flowing through a stream or river per unit time.

Hydrograph

A graphical representation of the flow of water in a river or stream over time.

Flow Regimes

The patterns of flow in a stream over time, which can be influenced by natural and anthropogenic factors.

Anthropogenic Processes

Human activities that affect natural systems, such as construction, deforestation, and pollution.

Dams

Structures built across rivers to control water flow, which can lead to altered flow regimes and ecological changes.

Peak Flow Events

The maximum flow recorded in a stream or river during a specific period, often influenced by precipitation or snowmelt.

Base Flow

The sustained flow of a stream or river, maintained by groundwater discharge.

Riparian Communities

Ecosystems located alongside rivers and streams, which are influenced by hydrological processes.

Ecological Succession

The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often influenced by external factors.

Urbanization

The process by which rural areas become developed, often leading to increased impermeable surfaces and altered hydrological responses.

Groundwater Flow Paths

The pathways through which groundwater moves through soil and rock layers, influencing surface water flow.

Lag Time

The delay between rainfall events and the response of streams in terms of flow, which can be decreased by urbanization.

Deforestation

The clearing or thinning of forests, which can impact local hydrology and water quality.

Hydrologic Response

The changes in streamflow characteristics as a response to environmental changes, such as land use changes.

Catchment Area

The area from which water is collected and drained into a single stream or river.

Diurnal Variation

Daily fluctuations in streamflow or temperature, influenced by factors such as temperature changes and human activities.

Hydrograph Analysis

The examination of hydrographs to assess changes in discharge and flow patterns in relation to various inputs.