Rates of groundwater flow are ________ than stream flow because the water ________.
A) higher; can flow through large caverns
B) higher; does not have any obstacles to overcome
C) lower; contains dissolved ions that slow it down
D) lower; must make its way through tiny pore spaces

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Groundwater flows much slower than stream flow because it must make its way through tiny pore spaces, which creates more resistance to flow. In contrast, stream flow has a larger channel and less resistance, allowing water to flow faster. Therefore, option D is the correct choice. Option A and B are incorrect since they suggest that groundwater flows faster than stream flow, which is not true. Option C is also incorrect because dissolved ions do not significantly affect the rate of flow of groundwater.

Rates of Groundwater Flow Are ________ Than Stream Flow Because