Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Hydrological Sciences

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Hydrological Sciences 1. Precipitation vs. Condensation Precipitation refers to the process of water falling from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, while condensation is the conversion of water vapor into liquid droplets. Remember, precipitation is the actual falling of water, while condensation is the formation of droplets. 2. Evaporation vs. Transpiration Evaporation occurs when water changes from a liquid state to a gaseous state, usually from open water bodies. On the other hand, transpiration is the release of water vapor by plants through their leaves. Both processes contribute to the water cycle. 3. Runoff vs. Infiltration Runoff is the movement of water over the land surface, often leading to streams and rivers. Infiltration, on the other hand, is the process of water seeping into the ground. While runoff is surface movement, infiltration is about water entering the soil. 4. Groundwater vs. Surface Water Groundwater refers to the water stored beneath the Earth's surface in aquifers. Surface water, as the name suggests, is water found on the Earth's surface, like in lakes and rivers. Both are important sources of freshwater. 5. Aquifer vs. Aquitard