Water_2025

Hydrogen Bonds

Strong forces of attraction between molecules of water, responsible for water's unique properties.

High Heat Capacity

The ability of liquid water to absorb large amounts of heat, moderating temperature fluctuations and acting as a coolant.

Superior Solvent

Water's capability to dissolve a wide variety of substances, enabling it to carry nutrients and flush waste.

Evaporation Cooling Process

The process where water absorbs heat as it evaporates and releases heat when it condenses back to liquid.

Aquifer

Porous formations of rock, sand, or gravel that hold water, crucial for groundwater supply.

Zone of Saturation

The area in an aquifer where all pore spaces are filled with water.

Recharge Zone

An area where water infiltrates the Earth's surface and replenishes aquifers.

Surface Water

Freshwater from precipitation that flows across land into streams, lakes, and oceans.

Watershed

Land area from which water drains into a stream or lake.

Meander

A bend in a river where erosion occurs on the outer bank and sediment is deposited on the inner bank.

Oxbow Lake

A U-shaped water body formed when a river bend becomes isolated.

Floodplain

The area nearest to a river that is periodically flooded, often creating fertile soils.

Groundwater Depletion

Withdrawal of groundwater at a rate faster than it can be replenished by natural processes.

Desalination

The process of removing salt from seawater to produce freshwater.

Xeriscaping

Landscaping designed to conserve water, using plants adapted to arid conditions.

Water Footprint

The total daily per capita use of fresh water, influenced by lifestyle and agricultural practices.

Hydroponics

Cultivation of plants in nutrient-rich water rather than soil, often more efficient than traditional irrigation.

Sustainable Water Supply

Ensuring that water use is balanced with natural replenishment to avoid resource depletion.

Water-mining

Over-extraction of groundwater faster than it is naturally replenished.

Contaminated Water

Water that is polluted, often from domestic or industrial waste, making it unsafe for consumption.

Gray Water

Wastewater from baths, sinks, and washing machines that can be reused for irrigation.