Question

different watersheds are characterized by their area, slope, and soil. the table below compares two adjoining watersheds.
watershed a watershed b
area 1,000 ha 1,200 ha
slope gradual steep
soil high permeability low permeability
within which watershed will abundant infiltration contribute to the greatest volume of groundwater recharge, and why?
choose 1 answer:
a watershed a, because of its smaller area.
b watershed a, because of its highly permeable soil.
c watershed b, because of its steep slope.
d watershed b, because of its low permeability.

Explanation:

Groundwater recharge depends on soil permeability. High - permeability soil allows more water to infiltrate and recharge groundwater. Watershed A has high - permeability soil. A smaller area (Option A) would likely mean less total recharge. A steep slope (Option C) leads to more runoff and less infiltration. Low permeability (Option D) reduces infiltration.

Answer:

B. Watershed A, because of its highly permeable soil.