What is a sign of impermeable surfaces in urban areas?

What is a sign of impermeable surfaces in urban areas?

• A. High infiltration rates
• B. Increased groundwater recharge
• C. Flooding during rain events
• D. Healthy vegetation

Answer: (C)

Impermeable surfaces in urban areas, such as asphalt and concrete, prevent water from soaking into the ground. This lack of infiltration leads to increased surface runoff during rain events, which can overwhelm drainage systems and result in flooding. When rain falls on these hard surfaces, the water does not have the opportunity to percolate into the soil, thus contributing to rapid runoff and the potential for localized flooding. This phenomenon is a key characteristic of urban environments with extensive impermeable surfaces, making it a distinct and observable sign. In contrast, the other options pertain to conditions that would typically be associated with permeable surfaces and healthy ecosystems, where water can be absorbed and utilized effectively. High infiltration rates and increased groundwater recharge indicate that water is being absorbed into the soil, which is not the case in areas dominated by impermeable materials. Healthy vegetation, on the other hand, thrives in environments with adequate water infiltration and soil moisture, which also contradicts the presence of impermeable surfaces.

Impermeable surfaces in urban areas, such as asphalt and concrete, prevent water from soaking into the ground. This lack of infiltration leads to increased surface runoff during rain events, which can overwhelm drainage systems and result in flooding. When rain falls on these hard surfaces, the water does not have the opportunity to percolate into the soil, thus contributing to rapid runoff and the potential for localized flooding. This phenomenon is a key characteristic of urban environments with extensive impermeable surfaces, making it a distinct and observable sign.

In contrast, the other options pertain to conditions that would typically be associated with permeable surfaces and healthy ecosystems, where water can be absorbed and utilized effectively. High infiltration rates and increased groundwater recharge indicate that water is being absorbed into the soil, which is not the case in areas dominated by impermeable materials. Healthy vegetation, on the other hand, thrives in environments with adequate water infiltration and soil moisture, which also contradicts the presence of impermeable surfaces.