11.1. Factors Affecting Infiltration

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is infiltration?

   Hint

   Think about how water interacts with soil.

2. 2.

   List one factor that affects infiltration.

   Hint

   Consider the type of materials within the soil.

3. 3.

   What term describes the process by which water enters the soil?

   • Evaporation
   • Infiltration
   • Runoff

   Hint

   Consider the water cycle.

4. 4.

   True or False: Clayey soils have higher infiltration rates than sandy soils.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the structure of different soil types.

5. 5.

   Design an experiment to measure the infiltration rate of two different soil types (sandy vs. clayey). Outline the materials and methods you would use.

   Hint

   Think about how you could ensure equal rainfall on both plots.

6. 6.

   Explain how you might solve a runoff problem in an urban area with high impervious surfaces. Discuss potential solutions that consider infiltration.

   Hint

   Consider how each solution helps water reach the soil.