FinalreviewSU24 2.docx

Greenhouse Effect

The process by which radiation from a planet's atmosphere warms the planet's surface to a temperature above what it would be without its atmosphere.

Anthropogenic

Originating from human activity.

Stratospheric Ozone

Ozone found in the stratosphere, which plays a crucial role in absorbing the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Milankovitch Orbital Variations

Changes in the Earth's orbit and tilt that can lead to variations in the climate over long periods.

Relative Geologic Time

Determining the sequence of events without determining their specific age.

Absolute Geologic Time

Determining the specific age of geological events using methods like radiometric dating.

Stream Discharge

The volume of water passing through a specific point in a given amount of time, calculated as the product of stream cross-section area and stream velocity.

Aquifers

Underground layers of rock or sediment that hold water and allow water to flow through.

Water Table

The level below the Earth's surface at which the ground becomes saturated with water.

Rock Cycle

The continuous process by which rocks are created, changed, and destroyed on Earth.

Soil Horizons

Layers of soil parallel to the soil surface, each with different characteristics and composition.

Surface Area

The total area of the exposed surface of a three-dimensional object.

Recurrence Interval

The average time between events of a certain magnitude, such as flooding in a stream.