hydrosphere Flashcards
1
Q
what is the hydrosphere
A
earths outer layer of water in all states
2
Q
about what fraction of the earth is covered in water
A
2/3
3
Q
about what percentage of the earths water is fresh water
A
2.5%
(2% in glaciers & 0.5% in lakes, rivers)
4
Q
what are watersheds
A
region where all inland waters drain into the same larger body
5
Q
what do toxic spills in water sheds affect
A
all the water downhill
6
Q
what is a watershed boundary defined by
A
highest point of land between rivers
7
Q
what are 4 natural factors affecting watersheds
A
- topography (hills and valleys)
- vegetation (trees and roots)
- geology (soil type)
- climate (frozen soil, precipitation)
8
Q
what is a human factor affecting watersheds
A
agricultural, industrial, and urban development (man made barriers)
9
Q
at which part of the earth is the ocean hotter
A
the equator
