Storm Hydrographs Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is a storm hydrograph?
A storm hydrograph is a graph that shows the change in river discharge over time following a rainfall event.
What does the peak discharge represent on a storm hydrograph?
The peak discharge represents the maximum flow of water in the river following a storm.
True or False: A storm hydrograph typically has a rising limb and a falling limb.
True
Fill in the blank: The time taken for the river discharge to return to normal levels is known as the _____ time.
recession
What is the base flow in a storm hydrograph?
Base flow is the normal level of river discharge before the rainfall event.
What does the lag time indicate on a storm hydrograph?
Lag time indicates the time delay between the peak rainfall and the peak discharge.
Multiple Choice: Which factor does NOT influence the shape of a storm hydrograph? A) Soil type B) Land use C) River width D) Rainfall intensity
C) River width
What is the significance of the rising limb on a storm hydrograph?
The rising limb indicates the rapid increase in discharge as rainwater flows into the river.
True or False: Urban areas typically have shorter lag times compared to rural areas.
True
What does a steep rising limb on a storm hydrograph suggest?
A steep rising limb suggests a quick response to rainfall, often due to impermeable surfaces.
Fill in the blank: The area under the hydrograph curve represents the total _____ of water.
volume
What are the two main components of a storm hydrograph?
The two main components are the rising limb and the falling limb.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following would likely lead to a longer lag time? A) Dense vegetation B) Urbanization C) Impermeable surfaces D) Steep slopes
A) Dense vegetation
What is the impact of heavy rainfall on a storm hydrograph?
Heavy rainfall typically causes a higher peak discharge and a steeper rising limb.
True or False: Storm hydrographs can be used to predict flooding events.
True
What is ‘flashy’ behavior in the context of storm hydrographs?
‘Flashy’ behavior refers to a rapid rise and fall in discharge, often seen in urban areas.
Fill in the blank: The length of the recession limb indicates the _____ of the river.
drainage
What does a longer recession limb indicate about the river’s drainage characteristics?
A longer recession limb indicates slower drainage and sustained flow from the river.
Multiple Choice: A storm hydrograph that shows a very flat rising limb suggests: A) High infiltration rates B) Low rainfall intensity C) High soil saturation D) All of the above
D) All of the above
True or False: The shape of a storm hydrograph can vary based on the catchment area characteristics.
True
What role does land use play in the characteristics of a storm hydrograph?
Land use affects runoff rates, infiltration, and the overall response of the river to rainfall.
Fill in the blank: A storm hydrograph for a watershed with a high percentage of impermeable surfaces will likely show a _____ peak discharge.
higher
What is the relationship between rainfall intensity and the shape of a storm hydrograph?
Higher rainfall intensity typically results in a steeper rising limb and a higher peak discharge.
Multiple Choice: Which type of rainfall would likely produce a hydrograph with a sharp peak? A) Drizzle B) Steady rain C) Intense downpour D) Light showers
C) Intense downpour
