Two adjacent drainage basins, Basin A and Basin B, experience identical climatic conditions and precipitation levels. A geomorphic survey records the following morphometric data:
| Drainage Basin | Total Channel Length () | Total Basin Area () |
|---|---|---|
| Basin A | ||
| Basin B |
Based on the drainage density of each basin, which of the following statements accurately compares their hydrological and geological characteristics?
- Basin A has a higher drainage density (), indicating predominantly impermeable surface rocks, higher surface runoff, and a faster flood response compared to Basin B.Answer
- BBasin A has a lower drainage density () than Basin B (), indicating greater surface permeability and enhanced groundwater infiltration in Basin A.
- CBasin A's drainage density of is primarily produced by lower-course floodplain depositional features such as oxbow lakes and meander loops that lengthen channels.
- DBasin B has a higher drainage density than Basin A because V-shaped contour lines across its main channels point downstream towards the basin outlet.
Answer
Basin A has a higher drainage density (), indicating predominantly impermeable surface rocks, higher surface runoff, and a faster flood response compared to Basin B.
The option identifying Basin A as having a higher drainage density () is correct because is calculated by dividing total stream length () by total basin area (). High values of drainage density reflect dense channel development, typical of impermeable rock strata where water cannot easily infiltrate, resulting in high surface runoff velocity.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Drainage Density () and Basin Hydrology
Estimated Time:2m 0s