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Summit to the Sea:
information for k-12 education what is an estuary? | habitat | climate | geology |
hydrology geology | physiographic provinces | aquifers | ground water Geology
As the slope of the land becomes steeper, water flows more quickly. It becomes less likely to soak into the ground and more likely to flow into streams. Thus, geology and topography determine these aspects of a river: how much water soaks into the ground; how much runs into river and stream channels; how fast the water flows; and how quickly the rocks and soil erode. As water runs down a river, soil and rocks on the sides and bottom of the river are worn off. These eroded soil and rock bits, called sediment, are carried downstream. Eventually the sediment settles at the bottom of a calm stretch of the river, or it may be swept along until it reaches the ocean.
In the northern part of the Altamaha River watershed (Piedmont region), most rainwater runs into streams and rivers. The rich soil and hard rock below do not allow much water to soak in. Water runs quickly downhill in this hilly landscape. In the flatter southern part of the watershed (Coastal Plain region), less rainwater flows into stream channels. Most of the rainwater drains into the porous sandy soil and limestone. click on images for larger versions. |
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