Book 24, Question 106 · Video
How does the Oak Ridges Moraine soak up rain like a giant sponge?
The Oak Ridges Moraine is a long ridge north of Toronto, built from sand and gravel that glaciers dropped about 12,000 years ago. Rain and melting snow soak through the loose layers and fill the spaces between the grains, which store water underground. That slowly leaks out as springs, which feed dozens of streams. The ridge acts like a giant water tank for the whole region.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How does the Oak Ridges Moraine soak up rain like a giant sponge?
The Big Idea
North of Toronto is a long ridge called the Oak Ridges Moraine. It soaks up rain like a giant sponge! Let's see how it works.
Glacier Gift
Step one: Glacier Gift. The Oak Ridges Moraine was built from sand and gravel that glaciers dropped about 12,000 years ago. It forms a long ridge north of Toronto.
Soaking In
Step two: Soaking In. Rain and melting snow soak through the loose layers. They fill the spaces between the grains, storing water underground.
Springs
Step three: Springs. The water slowly leaks out as springs, which feed dozens of streams. The ridge acts like a giant water tank for the whole region.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! A glacier dropped sediment. Sand and gravel piled up. Water is stored inside. It feeds streams.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! The Oak Ridges Moraine stretches roughly 160 kilometers, or 100 miles, across southern Ontario. It provides drinking water for many communities. Its forests and wetlands are home to many animals. Ontario has laws to help protect the moraine.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Fill a clear cup with sand. Pour in water until the lower half is wet. Use a turkey baster to pull water out of the wet sand. How is this like a well drawing water from underground? Clean up when you are done.
Outro
The Oak Ridges Moraine soaks up rain like a giant sponge because glaciers left loose sand and gravel there. Water fills the spaces between grains and slowly leaks out as springs that feed streams. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!