CATCHMENT BASIN Meaning and
Definition
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A catchment basin, also known as a drainage basin, river basin, or watershed, refers to a geographical area of land that collects and channels water from precipitation in a particular region. It is a natural topographic basin or depression that serves as a vital hydrological structure for the collection, storage, and transportation of water. Comprising various components such as rivers, tributaries, streams, lakes, and wetlands, a catchment basin acts like a funnel, receiving and draining water from atmospheric precipitation or runoff.
The boundaries of a catchment basin are usually defined by natural features such as ridges or mountain ranges. The area relies on gravitational forces to direct water to a central point or outlet, typically a river or lake, where it ultimately drains. Consequently, a catchment basin is responsible for collecting all the water within its confines, including surface runoff, underground flow, and even groundwater. The basin interacts with the surrounding environment, influencing the quantity and quality of water received and determining its overall availability.
Catchment basins play a crucial role in the water cycle and are essential for sustaining ecosystems, supporting human activities, and providing water supply for communities. They have a significant impact on flood control, water resources management, and overall environmental health. Understanding the characteristics and dynamics of a catchment basin is crucial for effective planning, development, and conservation strategies, as it helps to assess water availability, predict and mitigate flood risks, and maintain the overall wellbeing of aquatic ecosystems and their biodiversity.
Common Misspellings for CATCHMENT BASIN
- xatchment basin
- vatchment basin
- fatchment basin
- datchment basin
- cztchment basin
- cstchment basin
- cwtchment basin
- cqtchment basin
- carchment basin
- cafchment basin
- cagchment basin
- caychment basin
- ca6chment basin
- ca5chment basin
- catxhment basin
- catvhment basin
- catfhment basin
- catdhment basin
- catcgment basin
Etymology of CATCHMENT BASIN
The word "catchment" is derived from the verb "catch", which comes from the Old English word "caeccan" meaning "to catch, seize, or grasp". The noun form "catchment" appeared in the mid-19th century referring to an area that catches or receives something, typically water.
The word "basin" originates from the Old French word "bacin" or "bacinete", meaning "container" or "dish". It was derived from the Late Latin word "baccinum", which means "vessel" or "basin". It eventually came into English in the 13th century.
Therefore, the term "catchment basin" refers to an area that catches or collects water, typically a natural geographical feature that acts as a basin or container for rainfall or runoff.
Similar spelling word for CATCHMENT BASIN
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