Water Nuggets Practice Exam

Urbanization significantly alters the landscape, mainly through the construction of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. One prevalent effect of urbanization is increased runoff and decreased water infiltration.

As impervious surfaces like asphalt and concrete replace natural land cover, rainwater cannot penetrate the ground as effectively, leading to higher volumes of water running off into storm drains and waterways. This runoff can increase the risk of flooding and can also carry pollutants into local water bodies. Simultaneously, the decrease in water infiltration diminishes the natural replenishment of groundwater aquifers, which can affect water supply in the long term.

The other effects listed do not align with the typical impacts of urbanization. Urban areas often experience diminished water retention and reduced opportunities for groundwater replenishment due to the prevalence of built surfaces. Furthermore, surface water temperatures can increase due to heat absorption by urban materials rather than decreasing, and groundwater recharge is generally hindered rather than enhanced in urban settings. Thus, the correct identification of increased runoff and decreased water infiltration as a consequence of urbanization is well-supported.