Science Blitz: Water Systems and Ocean Systems

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering watershed dynamics, groundwater, surface water, ocean resources, and human impacts based on TEKS 7.11(A) and 7.11(B).

Watershed

An area of land where all water drains to the same body of water.

Surface Water

Water that collects on the surface of the Earth, such as in a creek or river.

Groundwater

Water that is stored underground beneath the Earth's surface, such as in an aquifer.

Runoff

Rainwater that flows over land surfaces, such as hillsides or paved parking lots, into a creek or other body of water.

Infiltration

The process of rainwater soaking into the soil rather than flowing over the surface.

Aquifer

An underground layer where groundwater is stored.

Algal Bloom

A rapid overgrowth of algae that occurs when excess fertilizer washes from land into creeks and water bodies.

Paved Surface

An impermeable surface, such as a parking lot, that prevents infiltration and creates more runoff after rain compared to a grassy field.

Rain Garden

A planted area designed to absorb rainwater, promote infiltration, and help keep creeks clean.

Overfishing

The practice of catching and removing fish faster than they can reproduce, leading to a decrease in fish populations.

Cargo Ship

A large vessel used for shipping and trade that benefits people by moving products across the oceans.

Habitat Loss

The destruction or elimination of a natural ecosystem required by wildlife, such as when a construction project destroys a wetland.

Marine Plastic Trash

Discarded plastic debris in ocean water that can injure or entangle marine animals, such as sea turtles.

Fishing Limits

Established regulations restricting the quantity of fish harvested, serving as a beneficial action to protect ocean species.

Gulf of Mexico

A major marine body of water that provides people with seafood, tourism, and ports and shipping.

Coral Reef Protection

A conservation action aimed at preserving and maintaining delicate marine reef ecosystems.