How does groundwater flow, and what factors affect its movement?

Question

A. Groundwater flows faster than rivers due to the heat from the Earth's core.

B. Groundwater flows through the spaces in soil and rock, affected by gravity and pressure.

C. Groundwater flows above ground, carried by winds and weather.

D. Groundwater flows in one direction at a constant speed, unaffected by conditions.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

B. Groundwater flows through the spaces in soil and rock, affected by gravity and pressure.

Groundwater movement is primarily driven by the forces of gravity and pressure differences within aquifers. It flows through the pore spaces and fractures in soil and rock, making its movement relatively slow compared to surface water, such as rivers. Various factors such as the permeability of the material, the slope of the water table, and the presence of barriers can influence groundwater flow.