Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which factor does NOT influence physical runoff?
Which factor does NOT influence physical runoff?
What is one consequence of urbanization on runoff?
What is one consequence of urbanization on runoff?
What effect does winter rainfall have on the River Wye's water balance?
What effect does winter rainfall have on the River Wye's water balance?
Which characteristic does NOT describe the upper part of the River Wye?
Which characteristic does NOT describe the upper part of the River Wye?
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How does vegetation type factor into runoff predictions?
How does vegetation type factor into runoff predictions?
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Study Notes
Water Balance
- Water balance is expressed as P = O + E +/- S
- P = Precipitation
- O = Runoff
- E = Evapotranspiration
- S = Storage
Factors Affecting River Runoff
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Physical Factors: Geology, permeability of ground, rainfall type, amount of rainfall, vegetation type, relief, temperature (time of year), saturated/antecedent weather.
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Human Factors: Urbanization, soil compaction, abstraction (taking water from ground), deforestation, agricultural practices, river interference.
River Wye Characteristics
- Upper part of the drainage basin:
- Steep slopes
- Acidic soils
- Low pH
- Grassland
- Deforested for farming
- Reduced interception
- Increased overland flow
- Ditches to drain land
- Prone to flooding
River Wye (Additional)
- Longest 5th in the UK
- 215km long
- Source in Plynlimon Hills (mid Wales)
- Mouth at Chepstow
- Joins Severn Estuary
- Special scientific interest (SSI)
- Outstanding natural beauty (ONB) site.
Water Budget/Soil Moisture Budget
- Used to assess flood risk & susceptibility of an area to flooding
- Relationship between temperature, precipitation, and evaporation rates.
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Description
Explore the fundamental concepts of water balance, including factors that affect river runoff. This quiz covers both physical and human influences on river characteristics, with a focus on the River Wye. Test your knowledge on hydrology and the environment.
