Lecture 21: Groundwater

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary related to groundwater and its characteristics, processes, and implications.

Infiltration

The process by which water enters the ground from the surface.

Porosity

The measure of open space in a rock or soil that can hold water.

Permeability

The ability of water to pass through a material due to connected pore spaces.

Aquifer

Sediment or rock that transmits water easily.

Aquitard

Sediment or rock that hinders water flow.

Water Table

The level below the surface at which soil/rock is saturated with groundwater.

Capillary Action

Movement of water within the spaces of a porous material due to adhesive and cohesive forces.

Karst

A landform characterized by soluble rock (like limestone) that has been dissolved by water, forming features like caves.

Unsaturated Zone

The upper surface of soil that is dry to partially filled with water.

Hydraulic Head

The height of water above a reference point in a well, representing the potential energy of groundwater.

Cone of Depression

A reduction in the water table due to excessive groundwater pumping.

Subsidence

The gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land, often caused by groundwater depletion.

Drought

A prolonged dry period during which rainfall is significantly below normal.

Groundwater Depletion

The reduction of groundwater levels due to over-extraction of water.

Vesicular Basalt

An igneous rock with vesicles formed from gas bubbles that are not well-connected, making it generally less permeable.