Study Guide

Explain the basic process of soil formation and why it takes so long.

Why are aquatic habitats so often rich in diversity but also so “endangered?”

Be able to discuss the major functions of wetlands and benefits to humans (handout).

Why is “connection to a floodplain” essential for a stream/river ecosystem?

Explain how the following processes work to cycle water: evaporation, photosynthesis, transpiration, precipitation, percolation, runoff, infiltration, water table, oceans/rivers/lakes.

Where in the water cycle do humans tend to add pollution to the cycle?

Flooding is a natural event but why is it actually an essential one for some aquatic ecosystems?

Explain the major reasons humans try to control flooding and what problems does this cause?

Define: Point Source vs. Non-Point source pollution and explain the major sources of each

List the major categories of water contaminants and at least 1 source for each.

Explain the basic process of wastewater treatment

Chapter 11: Water Pollution

A. Point vs. nonpoint source pollution

So, how do you deal with the collective “pooh pooh” from an entire city or town?

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5“leftovers” back into the environment