Where land is relatively flat, what happens to runoff?

Where land is relatively flat, what happens to runoff?

• A. It evaporates quickly
• B. It tends to spread out and soak into the ground
• C. It accumulates in low-lying areas
• D. It flows to nearby water bodies

Answer: (B)

When land is relatively flat, runoff tends to spread out and soak into the ground. In flat areas, there isn't a significant slope to direct the water quickly toward a particular destination, such as a stream or a river. As a result, the water has the opportunity to disperse across the surface. This allows for more water to be absorbed by the soil, especially if the soil is permeable, which can aid in replenishing groundwater supplies. The capacity for runoff to soak into the ground is important for maintaining groundwater levels and can also minimize surface erosion since water is less likely to collect and flow violently in any specific direction. Hence, in flat terrain, the interaction between the runoff and the soil is enhanced, promoting infiltration rather than quick drainage or accumulation of water. This process is essential in water management and conservation practices, especially in agricultural areas.

When land is relatively flat, runoff tends to spread out and soak into the ground. In flat areas, there isn't a significant slope to direct the water quickly toward a particular destination, such as a stream or a river. As a result, the water has the opportunity to disperse across the surface. This allows for more water to be absorbed by the soil, especially if the soil is permeable, which can aid in replenishing groundwater supplies.

The capacity for runoff to soak into the ground is important for maintaining groundwater levels and can also minimize surface erosion since water is less likely to collect and flow violently in any specific direction. Hence, in flat terrain, the interaction between the runoff and the soil is enhanced, promoting infiltration rather than quick drainage or accumulation of water. This process is essential in water management and conservation practices, especially in agricultural areas.