surface runoff

Definition

Surface runoff is water that flows over the ground after it rains or snows. It happens when the ground is too wet to absorb all the water. Surface runoff can carry soil, sediment, and pollutants into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

How can the word be used?

Surface runoff can cause flooding and erosion if it is not managed properly.

Different forms of the word

The word "surface runoff" does not have any other forms. It is a noun that refers to the water that flows over the land surface after a rainfall or snowfall. It is also known as overland flow or sheet flow.

Etymology

The etymology of the word "surface runoff" is interesting because it shows how the word is related to its meaning. The word "surface" refers to the top layer of the land, and "runoff" refers to water that flows over the land surface.

Question

What is surface runoff?