ECO5 - Water Cycle Flashcards
(10 cards)
What are the four major properties of water?
Universal solvent, high boiling and melting point, adhesive and cohesive properties, high heat capacity
Why is water called the universal solvent?
Due to polarity; it can form hydrogen bonds and dissolve many substances
What do hydrogen bonds in water cause?
High boiling/melting points, water being denser as a liquid, cohesion and adhesion, high heat capacity
How do humans obtain and lose water?
Obtain through eating, drinking, absorbing; lose through breathing, sweating, urination, and feces
Why must water be recycled in Earth’s system?
Earth is a closed system with limited water; water is also produced in cellular respiration
What is the hydrologic cycle?
The route water takes through the biosphere, connecting distant ecosystems
What are the key processes of the water cycle?
Evaporation, transpiration, condensation, precipitation, runoff, infiltration/percolation, groundwater
How does water transfer heat?
Water vapor traps and transfers heat; ocean currents move warm water to cooler regions
Name two natural events that affect the water cycle.
Forest fires, floods
Name two human impacts on the water cycle.
Damming rivers, urbanization, pollution, water extraction, deforestation
