Hydrograph Flashcards
1
Q
Peak Discharge
A
This is the highest point on the graph, when the river discharge is at its greatest.
2
Q
Lag time
A
This is the delay between peak rainfall and peak discharge. This delay happens because it takes time for the rainwater to flow into the river. A shorter lag time can increase peak discharge because more water reaches the river during a shorter period of time.
3
Q
Rising limb
A
This is the part of the graph up to peak discharge. The river discharge increases as rainwater flows into the river.
4
Q
Falling Limb
A
This is the part of the graph after peak discharge. Discharge is decreasing because less water is flowing into the river. A shallow falling limb shows water is flowing in from stores long after its stopped raining.
