Environmental Science Unit Four Vocabulary

Desalination is the correct answer because it refers to the process of removing salt from ocean water. This process involves various techniques such as reverse osmosis, distillation, or electrodialysis, which separate the salt and other impurities from the water, making it suitable for drinking or irrigation purposes.

Permeability refers to the ability of a rock or sediment to allow fluids to flow through its open spaces. It is a measure of how easily fluids can pass through the material. This property is important in various fields such as geology, hydrology, and engineering, as it determines the flow of groundwater, oil, gas, or other fluids through rocks and sediments.

Potable refers to something that is suitable for drinking. It means that the substance or liquid is safe and clean for consumption without causing harm or illness. In this context, the correct answer is "suitable for drinking."

Irrigation is the process of supplying water to plants using sources other than direct precipitation, such as through canals, pipes, or sprinklers. This method helps to ensure that plants receive adequate water for their growth and survival, especially in areas with limited rainfall or during dry seasons.

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A flowing network of rivers and streams draining a river basin is referred to as a river system.

An aquifer is a body of rock or sediment that is capable of storing groundwater and allowing the flow of groundwater. It acts as a natural underground reservoir that holds and transmits water through its permeable layers. Aquifers are important sources of freshwater for many regions and play a crucial role in supplying water for drinking, agriculture, and industrial purposes.

A watershed refers to the area of land where all the water that falls within it drains into a common water system, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It includes all the streams, rivers, and lakes that contribute to the overall drainage of the land. The term "watershed" is used to describe both the land and the water system itself. Therefore, the correct answer for the given question is watershed.

Point-source pollution refers to pollution that originates from a specific location or source. Unlike non-point source pollution, which is diffuse and comes from multiple sources, point-source pollution can be traced back to a specific site. This type of pollution is usually easier to identify, monitor, and control since it is localized to a particular area or facility. Examples of point-source pollution include industrial discharges, sewage treatment plant outflows, and oil spills from a specific vessel.

Groundwater refers to the water that is located beneath the Earth's surface. It is found in the spaces between soil particles and in underground rock formations known as aquifers. This water originates from precipitation that seeps into the ground and accumulates in these underground reservoirs. Groundwater plays a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems, providing drinking water, and supporting agriculture and industry. It can be accessed through wells and springs and is a valuable resource for human activities.

A pathogen refers to a virus, microorganism, or any other substance that is capable of causing disease. It is an infectious agent that can invade the body and lead to the development of various illnesses or infections. Pathogens can be transmitted through various means such as direct contact, airborne particles, or contaminated food and water. They have the ability to reproduce and multiply within the host, causing harm to the individual's health.

Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater, by the introduction of waste materials or harmful chemicals. These pollutants can be detrimental to the organisms that inhabit the water, as well as to those who consume or come into contact with the contaminated water.

Porosity refers to the amount of open spaces or voids within a rock or sediment, expressed as a percentage of the total volume. It indicates the ability of a material to hold and transmit fluids, such as water or oil. Higher porosity means more open spaces, allowing for greater fluid storage and flow. This characteristic is important in various industries, including geology, hydrology, and petroleum engineering, as it affects the permeability and storage capacity of rocks and sediments.

A recharge zone refers to an area where water seeps into the ground and travels downward to replenish an aquifer. It is essentially a location where water is recharged or refilled into the underground water storage system. This process occurs when precipitation or surface water infiltrates the soil and percolates through the layers, eventually reaching the aquifer. Recharge zones are crucial for maintaining the water levels in aquifers and ensuring a sustainable supply of groundwater.

A reservoir is an artificial body of water that typically forms behind a dam. It is created by blocking a river or stream, allowing water to accumulate and form a large storage area. Reservoirs are commonly constructed for various purposes such as water supply, irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation. They serve as important sources of water for human consumption, agricultural activities, and industrial use. Additionally, reservoirs can provide recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and swimming.

Nonpoint-source pollution refers to pollution that originates from multiple sources rather than a single specific location. This type of pollution is often difficult to trace back to a specific point of origin. An example of nonpoint-source pollution is when pollutants, such as chemicals or debris, are carried by rainwater runoff from streets and storm sewers and eventually contaminate a body of water.