The shortest residence time for water in pools of the hydrologic cycle occurs in
A) aquifers.
B) lakes.
C) rivers.
D) glaciers.
E) oceans.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rivers have the shortest residence time for water in the hydrologic cycle. This is because rivers continuously transport water from one place to another, constantly replenishing their supply from precipitation, runoff, and groundwater. Therefore, water in a river may travel only a few days or weeks before it is evaporated or discharged into the ocean, making the residence time of water in rivers relatively short. In contrast, aquifers, lakes, glaciers, and oceans can hold water for much longer periods, ranging from years to centuries, depending on their size, location, and other factors.

The Shortest Residence Time for Water in Pools of the Hydrologic