Paper 1- Exam Q's

Question 1

Explain the concept of dynamic equilibrium in relation to the water cycle- 4 marks

Answer 1

Dynamic Equilibrium refers to the tendency towards a natural state of balance within the hydrological cycle (1)
The cycle is closed so no water enters or leaves, simply recycled d(1)
It is easily upset by extreme events like storms (1)
And Human activity leading to flooding d(1)

Question 2

Outline flows within the water cycle operating on a hill slope- 4 marks

Answer 2

Surface runoff occurs when water directly runs over the ground (1) this may occur if the soil is saturated or over impermeable surfaces d(1)
Infiltration occurs when the water moves from the surface and then down the soil horizons (1) until it reaches groundwater or an impermeable layer d(1)

Throughflow
Groundwater
Percolation
Stemflow

Question 3

Explain the role of Cryospheric change in the water cycle- 4 marks

Answer 3

• Holds a regulatory role in sea levels (1)
• Glacial period- period of cooling which freezes ice and the cryospheric store will grow (1)
• Inter-glacial period- warming period, the cryosphere will add water to the cycle (1), more water returns to the sea as ice melts d(1) This leads to sea level rise d(1)