Water Chemistry and Environmental Impact Flashcards

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture notes on water chemistry and its impact on the environment.

Hydrosphere

The watery environment that distinguishes Earth from other planets; covering about 70% of the Earth's surface.

Saltwater

Water containing a high concentration of dissolved salts.

Freshwater

Water containing low concentration of dissolved salts.

Water Vapor

Water in its gaseous state, a component of the atmosphere.

Cryosphere

Frozen water found in polar regions, mountain peaks, and glaciers.

Hydrologic Cycle

The continuous movement of water between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere.

Evaporation

The process of converting water from a liquid to a gaseous state.

Precipitation

The process where water vapor changes into liquid or solid form.

Transpiration and Respiration

Biological processes, include water movement from plants and respiration in plants/animals.

Water Infiltration

The seeping of water through soil and rock to form groundwater.

Acid Rain

Rainfall that is acidic due to the presence of atmospheric pollutants.

Rain Gauge

An instrument used to measure the amount of rainfall.

Climate Models

Computer simulations used to predict changes in the water cycle based on current data and climate variables.

Polar Molecule

A molecule with an uneven distribution of electrical charge, resulting in positive and negative regions.

Hydrated Ions

Ions surrounded by water molecules.

pH Value

A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.

Hydrolysis

The process where water reacts with other compounds, leading to the formation of hydrogen and hydroxide ions.

Dissolution of Sodium Chloride

The dissolving of sodium chloride in water.

Monitoring Salinity Levels

The consistent monitoring of salinity levels to mitigate negative effects on water quality.