Water which infiltrates the soil surface and then moves laterally through the upper soil horizons towards the stream channels above the main groundwater table is known as i. interflow ii. subsurface runoff iii. storm seepage
- AOnly (i)
- BOnly (i) and (ii)
- COnly (iii)
- D(i), (ii) and (iii)Correct
Solution
Concept
Concept of interflow or subsurface runoff
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Infiltrated water moving laterally through upper soil layers toward stream channels before reaching the water table is termed interflow. 2. This flow mechanism is also known as subsurface runoff and storm seepage. 3. Therefore, statements (i), (ii), and (iii) are all applicable. Answer: D
Explanation
Water infiltrating the soil that travels laterally through unsaturated upper soil layers before reaching a stream channel is called interflow. This phenomenon is also commonly referred to as subsurface runoff or storm seepage in hydrological terminology. Because all three terms refer to the same flow process, option D is correct.
Why the other options are wrong
A) Terms (ii) and (iii) are also recognized terms for lateral water movement in soil. B) Storm seepage (iii) is also a valid synonym omitted from this choice. C) Interflow (i) and subsurface runoff (ii) are also correct terms and are omitted here.
Shortcut
Interflow, subsurface runoff, and storm seepage all refer to lateral flow above the main water table.
Common mistake
Selecting option A or B by treating interflow, subsurface runoff, and storm seepage as distinct exclusive concepts rather than synonymous terms.
Correct answer: D) (i), (ii) and (iii)