How do surface water and groundwater interact?

Question

Groundwater flows to the surface but never mixes with surface water.

Surface water flows into oceans, but groundwater stays underground forever.

Surface water can replenish groundwater, and groundwater can feed surface water.

Groundwater flows to the surface but never mixes with surface water

Answer 1

The correct statement regarding the interaction between surface water and groundwater is:

Surface water can replenish groundwater, and groundwater can feed surface water.

This means that surface water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands, can recharge groundwater aquifers through a process called infiltration. Conversely, groundwater can discharge into surface water bodies, contributing to flows in rivers and streams, especially during dry periods when surface water levels may be low. This interaction is an essential aspect of the hydrological cycle.