All Flashcards
What is a watershed?
Land area that drains into a specific body of water.
What are headwaters?
Starting points of a watershed, often in high elevations.
What are sub-watersheds?
Smaller streams and rivers branching off within a larger watershed.
Effect of deforestation on soil erosion?
Increased soil erosion and loss of topsoil.
Effect of deforestation on runoff rate?
Faster runoff and increased flooding.
Effect of deforestation on water quality?
Increased sediment and decreased filtration.
Effect of steep slopes on erosion?
Steeper slopes lead to more severe erosion.
Effect of clay soils on runoff?
Clay soils lead to more runoff.
Effect of sandy soils on runoff?
Sandy soils lead to less runoff due to higher infiltration.
Effect of increased vegetation on soil erosion?
Reduced soil erosion due to root systems holding soil together.
Effect of pollution on water quality?
Decreased water quality, harming aquatic life and human health.
Effect of urbanization on runoff?
Increased runoff due to impermeable surfaces.
Effect of urbanization on water infiltration?
Reduced water infiltration due to more concrete and less vegetation.
How does watershed size affect water volume?
Larger watershed = more runoff & greater water discharge.
How does slope affect runoff?
Steeper slope = faster runoff, increased erosion.
How does soil type impact water absorption?
Sandy soils: more infiltration. Clay soils: retain more water.
What is the role of vegetation in a watershed?
Prevents soil erosion, improves soil fertility, and helps filter water.
What happens when deforestation occurs in a watershed?
Increased erosion, faster runoff, decreased water quality.
How does watershed length affect runoff?
A longer watershed means it takes more time for runoff to reach the outlet.