What happens when the rate of precipitation is greater than the rate of infiltration?

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RRB JE CE 22 Apr 2025 Shift 2 CBT 2 Official Paper

Answer 1

Explanation:

When the rate of precipitation exceeds the rate of infiltration, the excess water cannot be absorbed by the soil. As a result, the water flows over the surface of the land as surface runoff.
Surface runoff occurs when the ground becomes saturated or when the rate of precipitation is too high for the soil to absorb it. This excess water can flow into rivers, lakes, or reservoirs, contributing to water levels rising.
Infiltration is the process by which water enters the soil. If precipitation is faster than infiltration, it can lead to flooding, erosion, and other hydrological issues.

Additional InformationSurface Runoff:

Occurs When Precipitation Exceeds Infiltration Rate: Surface runoff happens when the rate of rainfall or other precipitation is greater than the soil's ability to absorb it.
Leads to Erosion: Excess water flowing over the ground can erode soil, carry away nutrients, and cause land degradation.
Contributes to Flooding: If surface runoff is significant, it can lead to localized or widespread flooding, especially in urban areas where natural infiltration is reduced due to impermeable surfaces like roads and buildings.
Affects Water Quality: Runoff can pick up pollutants such as oil, chemicals, and debris, which can be carried into water bodies, affecting their quality.
Impacted by Land Use and Vegetation: Urbanization, deforestation, and the removal of vegetation increase surface runoff by reducing the amount of water that can infiltrate the soil.