AP®︎ Environmental Science: Topic 4.6 Flashcards

The entire land area from which surface water drains to a common outlet, including the channels and surrounding runoff-contributing land

A smaller drainage area feeding a tributary within a larger watershed

The upper, commonly high-elevation reaches where a stream or river system begins

A smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one

The location where two flowing channels meet

The location through which water leaves the watershed being considered; the selected outlet determines the watershed's boundary and area

A ridge or other high ground separating adjoining watersheds, with runoff on opposite sides flowing toward different outlets

The total land area enclosed by the drainage divide and draining to the selected outlet

The approximate distance from the upper watershed or most distant headwaters to the outlet, which influences runoff travel time and discharge timing

The change in elevation over horizontal distance; steeper slopes generally produce faster runoff and greater erosion

Starting at a specified outlet, trace upstream channels, identify surrounding high ground, and connect the ridges into a closed drainage-divide boundary