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Surface Runoff Formula:
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Surface Runoff is water, from rain, snowmelt, or other sources, that flows over the land surface, and is a major component of the water cycle. It represents the portion of precipitation that does not infiltrate into the ground or evaporate.
The calculator uses the Surface Runoff formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates surface runoff by subtracting the net groundwater flow from the total runoff volume.
Details: Accurate surface runoff estimation is crucial for water resource management, flood prediction, erosion control, and environmental impact assessment in watershed management.
Tips: Enter Runoff Volume in Cubic Meter and Net Ground Water Flowing Outside Catchment in Cubic Meter per Second. All values must be valid non-negative numbers.
Q1: What factors affect surface runoff?
A: Surface runoff is influenced by rainfall intensity, soil type, land slope, vegetation cover, and land use patterns.
Q2: How is surface runoff measured in practice?
A: Surface runoff is typically measured using flow gauges, weirs, or through hydrological modeling based on precipitation and catchment characteristics.
Q3: What's the difference between surface runoff and groundwater flow?
A: Surface runoff occurs over the land surface, while groundwater flow occurs through soil and rock layers beneath the surface.
Q4: Why is surface runoff important in urban planning?
A: In urban areas, impervious surfaces increase surface runoff, which can lead to flooding and water pollution if not properly managed.
Q5: How does vegetation affect surface runoff?
A: Vegetation reduces surface runoff by intercepting rainfall, increasing infiltration, and slowing water movement across the surface.