Question

the rio grande runs along the border between texas, in the united states, and mexico. the river is an important resource. it is a vital stop along birds migration routes, is central to many important desert ecosystems, and houses several dams used for purposes such as generating electrical energy and diverting water to irrigate cropland. however, the rio grande is polluted from human activities. its water levels have significantly declined over the past century from human activities and changes in climate. hydrologists play an important role in collecting data that show how much water runs through the river, how much water is used for different human activities, and what pollutants are in the water.

1. a hydrologist needs to know how much water will run off into a river in the spring after an exceptionally snowy winter. what data will the hydrologist need to consider? choose all that apply.

a. air temperature
b. amount of precipitation in the winter
c. depth of snowpack on surrounding mountain peaks
d. stream flow rates
e. reservoir water depth

Explanation:

Step1: Consider snow - melt factors

Air temperature affects the rate of snow - melt. Higher temperatures lead to more rapid melting, increasing runoff. So, air temperature (A) is relevant.

Step2: Analyze winter precipitation

The amount of winter precipitation (B) is important as it determines the initial amount of snow available for melting in the spring.

Step3: Evaluate snowpack depth

The depth of snowpack on surrounding mountain peaks (C) is a key factor in determining how much water will runoff. Deeper snowpacks generally mean more water will runoff.

Step4: Assess stream flow rates

Stream flow rates (D) can help in understanding the capacity of the river to carry water and also give an indication of the existing water movement in the system which can be affected by the spring runoff.

Step5: Consider reservoir water depth

Reservoir water depth (E) is not directly related to the amount of water running off into the river from the snow - melt after a snowy winter. It is more related to water storage and management in the reservoir system.

Answer:

A. air temperature, B. amount of precipitation in the winter, C. depth of snowpack on surrounding mountain peaks, D. stream flow rates