All Flashcards
Impact of impervious surfaces on groundwater?
Reduced groundwater recharge due to prevention of water seeping into the ground.
How does runoff impact marine systems?
Increased freshwater and pollutant input, disrupting balance.
Role of runoff in water pollution?
Runoff picks up pollutants and transports them to water bodies.
Why is water infiltration important?
Mimics natural processes, replenishing groundwater.
Explain the 'sponge vs. plate' analogy.
Sponge (natural) absorbs, plate (urban) causes runoff.
How does urbanization affect water cycles?
Increases runoff, reduces infiltration, alters flow patterns.
What is urban runoff?
Water from rain/snow flowing over man-made surfaces.
Define impervious surfaces.
Surfaces that prevent water infiltration (e.g., roads).
What is permeable pavement?
Pavement that allows water to seep through.
What are green roofs?
Vegetation planted on rooftops to absorb rainwater.
What are rain gardens?
Depressions planted to collect and filter runoff.
How does permeable pavement reduce runoff?
Allows water to seep through, increasing infiltration.
How do green roofs mitigate urban runoff?
Vegetation absorbs rainwater, reducing runoff volume.
How do rain gardens reduce runoff?
Collect and filter runoff, increasing infiltration.
How does vertical building reduce runoff?
Reduces paved area compared to horizontal sprawl.
How do trees help reduce runoff?
Absorb rainwater and reduce runoff volume.