Storm Hydrograph Keywords

Question 1

1) Rising limb

Answer 1

Rainfall input begins, discharge rises.

Question 2

2) peak discharge

Answer 2

Highest flow reached after peak rainfall.

Question 3

3) Lag time

Answer 3

Time interval between peak rainfall and peak discharge.

Question 4

4) Falling or recessional limb

Answer 4

When storm ceases and amount of water in river decreases.

Question 5

5) Base flow

Answer 5

Normal level of discharge.

Question 6

Flashy river (5 points)

Answer 6

• short lag time, high peak, steep rising limb.
• small, circular basin.
• high drainage density.
• urbanisation, deforestation etc.
• basin already wet, previous rainfall.

Question 7

Flat river (5 points)

Answer 7

• long lag time, low peak, gently sloping rising limb.
• large, elongated basins.
• low drainage density.
• low population areas. (no urban land)
• moorland, forests.
• dry basin and low water table.