5.2 Factors that cause variation within the drainage basin

Question 1

Temperature

Answer 1

The rate of evaporation increases with temperature. The main energy source is solar radiation, so evaporation and temperature will increase with sunshine hours

Question 2

Wind

Answer 2

Wind will increase the rate of evaporation by reducing the relative humidity and preventing saturation of the air

Question 3

Vegetation cover

Answer 3

Transpiration will increase with increased vegetation cover, which will depend on the type of vegetation and the season. Vegetation with a low albedo (reflectivity), such as dark forests, will absorb more solar radiation, increasing evaporation.

Question 4

Soil moisture content

Answer 4

Soil moisture content will determine the amount of water available for transpiration. it is dependant on soil and rock permeability.