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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the primary step that allows water to enter the groundwater system?
A
Condensation
B
Transpiration
C
Infiltration
D
Evaporation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of groundwater: Groundwater is water that exists beneath the Earth's surface, stored in soil and rock formations. It is replenished primarily through the process of infiltration.
Define infiltration: Infiltration is the process by which water on the surface of the Earth, such as rainwater, penetrates the soil and moves downward into the subsurface layers, eventually reaching the groundwater system.
Differentiate infiltration from other processes: Condensation, transpiration, and evaporation are all parts of the water cycle, but they do not directly contribute to water entering the groundwater system. Condensation forms clouds, transpiration releases water vapor from plants, and evaporation turns liquid water into vapor. None of these processes involve water moving into the soil.
Recognize the role of infiltration in the water cycle: Infiltration is the primary step that allows water to enter the groundwater system. It occurs after precipitation, when water from rain or snowmelt seeps into the ground.
Connect infiltration to environmental factors: Factors such as soil type, vegetation cover, and land slope can influence the rate of infiltration. For example, sandy soils allow faster infiltration compared to clay soils, and vegetation can enhance infiltration by reducing surface runoff.