Which one of the following best describes how urbanization affects small- stream watersheds?
A)Infiltration is reduced; lag time between storms and peak runoff is increased.
B)Infiltration increases slightly; lag time between storms and peak runoff decreases.
C)Infiltration and lag time between storms and peak runoff increase.
D)Infiltration decreases; lag time between storms and peak runoff is shortened.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Urbanization typically involves the replacement of natural surfaces with impervious ones, such as concrete or asphalt. This reduces infiltration, or the ability of water to soak into the ground, and increases surface runoff. As a result, the lag time between storms and peak runoff is reduced, meaning that water reaches streams and rivers more quickly after precipitation events. Therefore, the best choice is D, where infiltration decreases and the lag time between storms and peak runoff is shortened.

Which One of the Following Best Describes How Urbanization Affects