Vocabulary

Definitions and Context

Adaptation: traits developed over time that help organisms meet their basic needs and survive.
Context: The adaptation of eyes and nose on top of the alligator's head allows it to easily catch a breath and see while floating just under the surface of the water.

Aquatic: Growing, living in, or frequenting water
Context: All frog eggs and larvae are aquatic, but some adult frogs can live most of their lives away from the water.

Aquifer: rocky or sandy cavity underground that collects water
Context: Many people pump water from an underground aquifer for drinking water.

Condensation: the change from gas to liquid Context: Condensation occurs when water vapor in the sky becomes clouds.

Marine: Growing, living in, or frequenting salt water
Context: Sea turtles are marine animals.

Evaporation: the change from liquid to gas Context: Evaporation from the surface of the oceans, lakes and streams transforms surface water to atmospheric water vapor.

Groundwater: water found under Earth's surface between saturated soil and rock supplying wells and springs. Context: Soil and caves allow rain water to seep down and become groundwater.

Precipitation: water from the atmosphere that reaches the ground in solid or liquid form. Context: Rain, sleet, snow and hail are forms of precipitation that return water from the atmosphere to the Earth.

Riparian: located or relating to the banks of a stream, river, or other body of water. Context: Raccoons take advantage of riparian habitat.

Surface water: water found on the surface of the earth in ponds, lakes, rivers and oceans. Context: Surface water is used for recreation as well as drinking water and industry.

Water Cycle: the process of evaporation, condensation and precipitation
Context: Clouds are an important part of the water cycle.