Each statement represents the primary learning objective for the corresponding major heading within this Topic. After you complete the Topic, you should be able to:

• List the hydrosphere’s major reservoirs and describe the different paths that water takes through the hydrologic cycle.

• Describe the nature of drainage basins and river systems and sketch four basic drainage patterns.

• Discuss streamflow and the factors that cause it to change.

• Summarize the ways in which streams erode, transport, and deposit sediment.

• Contrast bedrock and alluvial stream channels and distinguish between two types of alluvial channels.

• Contrast narrow V-shaped valleys, broad valleys with floodplains, and valleys that display incised meanders.

• Discuss the formation of deltas, natural levees, and alluvial fans.

• Distinguish between regional floods and flash floods and describe some common flood control measures.

• Discuss the importance of groundwater and describe its distribution and movement.

• Compare and contrast wells, artesian systems, and springs.

• List and discuss the important environmental problems associated with groundwater.

• Explain the formation of caverns and the development of karst topography.