Surface Water Runoff — Passage
Surface water runoff occurs when rainwater or melted snow flows over the land instead of soaking into the ground. It is a key part of the water cycle and plays a vital role in replenishing rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
Runoff is influenced by factors like rainfall intensity, slope of the land, and soil type. For example, heavy rain on steep, paved surfaces creates more runoff than light rain on flat, grassy areas.
While runoff is essential for supplying freshwater, it can also cause problems. Excessive runoff can lead to flooding, soil erosion, and water pollution. As water flows over the land, it picks up pollutants like pesticides, fertilizers, and oil, which can contaminate water bodies.
To manage runoff, solutions like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and retention ponds are used. These methods help slow down runoff, allowing water to soak into the ground and reducing pollution.
Fun fact: In urban areas, up to 55% of rainfall can become runoff due to impermeable surfaces like roads and buildings, compared to just 10% in natural areas.
What is surface water runoff?
Water that soaks into the groundWater that flows over the landWater stored in aquifersWater in glaciersWhat influences surface water runoff?
Rainfall intensity, slope, and soil typeOcean currentsAir temperatureWind speedWhat is one benefit of runoff?
It causes floodingIt replenishes rivers and lakesIt increases soil erosionIt pollutes waterWhat is one problem caused by excessive runoff?
Improved water qualityFloodingIncreased groundwater levelsReduced pollutionWhat is one solution to manage runoff?
Building more roadsUsing permeable pavementsIncreasing pollutionIgnoring the problemWhat is the fun fact mentioned in the passage?
Urban areas have less runoff than natural areasUp to 55% of rainfall can become runoff in urban areasRunoff has no effect on water qualityRunoff only occurs in desertsWhat is one pollutant picked up by runoff?
OxygenPesticidesFreshwaterSandWhat is a rain garden?
A garden that increases runoffA garden that helps slow down runoffA type of pavementA type of pondCommon core standards covered
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