Question

the building of a large shopping mall... would decrease the recharging of aquifers. would help save water in that local area. could prevent local flooding. could cause increased local flooding.

Explanation:

Building a large shopping - mall often involves significant land development. Paved surfaces reduce infiltration of rainwater into the ground, increasing surface runoff. This can lead to higher water volumes in local drainage systems, potentially causing increased local flooding. Aquifer recharge is decreased as less water infiltrates, but the more immediate and direct impact related to flooding is the increased runoff and potential for flooding.

Answer:

D. Could cause increased local flooding.