Deforestation and compaction of land due to population growth have reduced the absorptive capacity of the soil and accelerate water runoff. How does the accelerated runoff affect the future water supply?

Question

Deforestation and compaction of land due to population growth have reduced the absorptive capacity of the soil and accelerate water runoff. How does the accelerated runoff affect the future water supply?

Question 2 options:

discharge of aquifers

aquifers become over-filled from flooding

deficits in the recharge rates of aquifers

soil absorbs more water

Answer 1

Deficits in the recharge rates of aquifers would likely occur due to the accelerated runoff. This means that less water would be able to seep into the ground and replenish underground water sources, potentially leading to a decreased future water supply.