Stemflow, infiltration, overland flow and channel flow; concept of water balance
After rain hits a hillslope, water travels to a river through several pathways. The water balance equation tracks whether a drainage basin gains or loses water overall.
Real World
The water balance equation (P = Q + E ± S) applied to the Thames basin shows a soil moisture deficit each summer, when evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation, and a surplus each winter that recharges London's chalk aquifers.
Exam Focus
State the water balance equation and define every term — mark schemes typically award one mark per correctly identified component.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
How well did you know this?