An increase in the earth's
temperature resulting from the
accumulation of carbon dioxide and
water vapor in the atmosphere.
Excess amounts of these gases trap
heat in the upper atmosphere and
reflect it back to earth.
Underground water in an aquifer,
used for drinking water in 75
percent of Minnesota households.
The subsurface water supply in the
saturated zone below the level of
the water table.
A wall of bentonite or similar
material injected underground to
retard horizontal flow of ground
water in order to isolate or
control contamination; a slurry
wall.
A waste that: is easily ignitable
under ordinary temperature and
pressure; readily supplies oxygen
or reactive gas to a fire; is
corrosive (highly acidic or
caustic); is explosive or
generates toxic gas; is acutely
toxic to animals if it comes into
contact with skin or is inhaled,
eaten or drunk; or contains toxic
chemicals that can be dissolved in
an acidic environment, such as a
landfill.
Metals with high molecular weights
that are of concern because they
are generally toxic to animal life
and human health if naturally
occurring concentrations are
exceeded. Examples include,
arsenic, chromium, lead and
mercury.