All Flashcards
Define watershed.
Land area that drains into a specific body of water.
What are headwaters?
The starting points of a watershed, often in high elevations.
What are sub-watersheds?
Smaller streams and rivers that branch off within a larger watershed, all flowing to the same discharge point.
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.
Effect of deforestation on soil erosion?
Increased soil erosion and loss of topsoil.
Effect of deforestation on runoff rate?
Faster runoff and increased flooding potential.
Effect of deforestation on water quality?
Increased sediment and decreased water filtration.
How does urbanization affect watersheds?
Increases runoff, pollution, and habitat destruction.