Describe any difference between the amounts of water that would percolate downward to the saturated zone beneath a flat meadow in northern New York and a rocky hillside in southern Nevada.
Discuss the factors that control the amount of percolation in each case.
In a meadow in New York, the saturated zone would be relative a large amount because of the low factors. However, in southern Nevada the saturated zone would be very low because of the rocky hillside factor and other influences. Many of these factors also are effected by; sun light, rocks, and other water sources. New York has an even ground water level, which is not very effected by the sun and rocks. However, New York does have other water sources which helps keep this ground water relatively high. Nevada on the other hand, has many factors effecting its ground water like high sun light and rocks, but it also does not have a strong water source like New York.
The amount of water that percolates downward to the saturated zone can be different between a flat meadow in northern New York and a rocky hillside in southern Nevada. This difference in percolation is primarily influenced by several factors.
1. Climate: The climate in each region plays a significant role in determining percolation rates. Northern New York experiences a temperate climate with moderate precipitation throughout the year. This means that the meadow receives a relatively consistent amount of rainfall, allowing the water to slowly percolate downwards. In contrast, southern Nevada has a desert climate with hot and arid conditions. The limited rainfall in this region results in less water availability and reduced percolation into the saturated zone.
2. Soil Composition: The type of soil present in each location affects percolation rates. In the case of the flat meadow in northern New York, it likely consists of silt or clay soil, which has a fine texture and can hold water well. This property enables water to percolate slowly through the soil layers. On the other hand, the rocky hillside in southern Nevada is likely composed of coarse, rocky soil, which has larger particles and lower water-holding capacity. Consequently, most of the rainfall tends to runoff quickly without significant percolation.
3. Topography: The shape and steepness of the land surface also impact percolation rates. A flat meadow in northern New York provides a relatively level surface, allowing water to spread out and percolate evenly. This promotes deeper infiltration and increased percolation rates. In contrast, a rocky hillside in southern Nevada has a steep slope and uneven surface, which increases the likelihood of water running off quickly rather than percolating downwards.
4. Vegetation Cover: The presence or absence of vegetation can influence percolation rates. A meadow in northern New York is likely to have lush vegetation, such as grasses, which can reduce surface runoff and promote water infiltration. The roots of these plants can help create pathways for water to percolate through the soil. Conversely, a rocky hillside in southern Nevada may have sparse vegetation due to the arid conditions, which leads to less interception of rainfall and minimal percolation.
In summary, the amount of water that percolates downward to the saturated zone can differ between a flat meadow in northern New York and a rocky hillside in southern Nevada due to variations in climate, soil composition, topography, and vegetation cover. These factors collectively influence the ability of water to infiltrate the soil and reach the saturated zone in each location.