Large shrubs and trees are often planted near rivers to help prevent flooding. The deep, highly-absorbent roots of these shrubs and trees help soak up heavy rains before they begin to flood the land. Because they reach high above the ground and their branches and leaves spread outward, trees can also reduce the amount of rainfall that reaches the ground by up to 45%. In the event of a flood, what additional benefit might these shrubs and trees provide?

Question

Large shrubs and trees are often planted near rivers to help prevent flooding. The deep, highly-absorbent roots of these shrubs and trees help soak up heavy rains before they begin to flood the land. Because they reach high above the ground and their branches and leaves spread outward, trees can also reduce the amount of rainfall that reaches the ground by up to 45%. In the event of a flood, what additional benefit might these shrubs and trees provide?
Responses
A	They store and hold excess water to prepare for dry seasons.They store and hold excess water to prepare for dry seasons.
B	They prevent flood waters from entering and polluting the rivers.They prevent flood waters from entering and polluting the rivers.
C	They help to slow down the flow of water, reducing damaging impacts.They help to slow down the flow of water, reducing damaging impacts.
D	They absorb harmful pollutants and stop debris from entering the river.They absorb harmful pollutants and stop debris from entering the river.

GPT-4o mini · Answer

The most relevant additional benefit these shrubs and trees provide in the event of a flood is:

C They help to slow down the flow of water, reducing damaging impacts.

This option highlights how the presence of trees and shrubs can help manage flood waters by reducing their speed, which can mitigate damage to the surrounding area.