What may form when falling precipitation runs off the surface of the ground? Explain how the form of precipitation may affect runoff.
I don't understand what they are asking. What do they mean by "What may form?" does it mean like a puddle? or mudslide? or something?
Yes, you're on the right track. It could also be a wadi.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/wadi
Thank you!
When the question asks "What may form?" it is referring to the different forms that falling precipitation can take when it runs off the surface of the ground. Precipitation can include rain, snow, sleet, or hail. When this precipitation falls onto the ground, it can undergo different processes depending on the temperature and the characteristics of the surface it falls on.
The form of precipitation can affect runoff because the way different forms interact with the surface and the surrounding environment varies. Here's an explanation of how the form of precipitation can affect runoff:
1. Rain: Rainfall is the most common form of precipitation. When rain falls onto a surface, it can either infiltrate into the ground, contributing to groundwater storage, or it can run off the surface as surface runoff. The amount of runoff mainly depends on the type of surface. Impermeable surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt, do not allow water to infiltrate and result in higher surface runoff, causing puddles and increasing the risk of flooding. On the other hand, permeable surfaces like lawns or forests promote water infiltration, reducing surface runoff.
2. Snow: Snowfall occurs when the temperature is below freezing point. When the snow accumulates on the ground, it forms a snowpack. As the temperature rises or during periods of rainfall, the snow can melt, turning into liquid water. The rate of melting and the amount of snowpack will affect runoff. If the snow melts slowly or the ground is frozen, it can result in reduced runoff as the water has time to infiltrate. However, rapid snowmelt or rain over a snowpack can increase runoff and lead to issues like flash floods.
3. Sleet: Sleet is a type of frozen precipitation that occurs when there is a layer of freezing air between the clouds and the ground. It starts as snow and then melts partially as it passes through a warm layer before refreezing, forming ice pellets. Sleet can accumulate on the ground, creating a layer of icy conditions. This ice layer can make surfaces slippery and increase the potential for accidents. It can also contribute to the formation of ice dams, which obstruct the flow of water and can result in localized flooding.
4. Hail: Hail is formed during severe thunderstorms when strong updrafts carry raindrops upward into extremely cold regions of the storm cloud, where they freeze into ice pellets. These ice pellets get uplifted multiple times, and with each uplift, layers of ice are added, resulting in the formation of hailstones. Hail can cause significant damage to properties, crops, and vegetation. During hailstorms, the intense precipitation and impact of hailstones can lead to increased runoff, potentially causing flash floods.
In summary, the form of precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) affects the runoff by influencing the amount of water that infiltrates into the ground, the rate of surface runoff, and the potential for flooding or other environmental impacts.