Question 1:

What is surface runoff?

Explanation: Surface runoff refers to the movement of water across the Earth's surface, typically as a result of precipitation, and eventually flowing into bodies of water such as streams, rivers, and lakes. It occurs when the ground is saturated or impermeable, preventing water from infiltrating into the soil.

Question 2:

Which of the following factors can influence the rate and volume of surface runoff?

Explanation: The rate and volume of surface runoff are influenced by various factors, including the intensity and duration of rainfall as well as the slope of the land. Higher rainfall intensity and longer durations increase the amount of water reaching the surface, while steeper slopes enhance the flow of water, leading to greater runoff.

Question 3:

What is stream flow?

Explanation: Stream flow refers to the movement of water within rivers and streams. It is the result of the combined runoff from various sources, including precipitation, surface runoff, and groundwater discharge. Stream flow plays a crucial role in the water cycle by transporting water from higher elevations to lower elevations and eventually to larger bodies of water.

Question 4:

What is the term for the total area of land from which a stream or river collects runoff?

Explanation: The term for the total area of land from which a stream or river collects runoff is a drainage basin. Also known as a watershed, it includes all the land and water channels that contribute to the flow of water into a particular river or stream system.

Question 5:

What happens to the velocity and discharge of a stream as it flows downstream?

Explanation: As a stream flows downstream, its velocity typically increases while its discharge also increases. This is because more water is added to the stream as it collects runoff from tributaries, resulting in greater flow volume (discharge), which in turn accelerates the velocity of the stream.