Hydrology Vocabulary

These flashcards cover key vocabulary from the hydrology lecture, focusing on definitions and important concepts related to water systems.

Hydrosphere

The total amount of water on the planet.

Watershed

An area or ridge of land that separates water flow to different places.

River Basin

An area of land where all the water drains downhill to a main river.

Aquifer

An underground layer of water-bearing rock that can yield water.

Permeable

Substances that allow liquids or gases to pass through.

Impemeable

Substances that prevent liquids or gases from passing through.

Runoff

The portion of precipitation that flows over the land surface into streams, rivers, and lakes.

Infiltration

The physical process where water on the ground surface enters the soil.

Groundwater

Freshwater located beneath Earth's surface.

Bioindicators

Living organisms—such as plants, animals, or microbes—used to assess the health, quality, and changes in an environment.

Turbidity

The cloudiness of water caused by suspended particles like silt, clay, organic matter, and microorganisms, measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units.

Eutrophication

The over-enrichment of water bodies by nutrients.

Potable

Water safe for human consumption, meaning it is free from harmful microorganisms and chemicals.

Nonpoint source pollution

Water pollution that doesn’t come from one source.

Point source pollution

Water pollution that comes from one direct source.