Outdoor Glossary: V
V0 + u See equilibrium argument
valley An elongated depression, usually with an outlet, between
BLUFFS or between ranges of hills or mountains.
values characteristics of things that make them more or less
desirable, important, or useful.
vanishing tide In a predominantly mixed tide with very large
diurnal inequality, the lower high water (or higher low water) becomes
indistinct (or vanishes) at times of extreme declinations.
variability of waves (1) The variation of heights and periods
between individual waves within a wave train. (2) The variation in direction of
propagation of waves leaving the GENERATING AREA. (3) The variation in height
along the crest, usually called "variation along the wave".
variation (of compass) Difference between true north as determined
by the Earth's axis of rotation and magnetic north as determined by the Earth's
magnetism. Variation is designated as east or positive when the magnetic needle
is deflected to the east of true north and as west or negative when the
deflection is to the west of true north. Also called magnetic declination.
variational inequality An inequality in the Moon's motion due
mainly to the tangential component of the Sun's attraction.
variety class A way to classify landscapes according to their
visual features. This system is based on the premise that landscapes with the
greatest variety or diversity have the greatest potential for scenic
value.
vegetation management Activities designed primarily to promote the
health of forest vegetation for multiple-use purposes.
vegetation type A plant community with distinguishable
characteristics.
velocity (of current) Speed and set of the current
velocity profile The velocity gradient within the bottom boundary
layer, displayed as a graph of height above the bed against the velocity of the
flow.
vernal equinox See equinoxes
vertical diversity The diversity in a stand that results from the
different layers or tiers of vegetation.
viable population The number of individuals of a species sufficient
to ensure the long-term existence of the species in natural, self-sustaining
populations that are adequately distributed throughout their range.
virgin forest A natural forest virtually uninfluenced by human
activity.
viscosity Resistance to flow
visual quality objective A set of measurable goals for the
management of forest visual resources.
visual resource A part of the landscape important for its scenic
quality. It may include a composite of terrain, geologic features, or
vegetation
vole small, mouse-like rodents that are generally darker in color
and have shorter tails than mice. The meadow vole is a common prey species for
foxes and coyotes.
vulgar establishment Same as establishment of the
port
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