Question

1. an area of city is currently undeveloped. the city has been asked to consider a request for a local contractor to develop the area, as part of the development they asked that a study be conducted to evaluate the impact on the local water cycle. the proposed effects are shown in the infographic. which statement below accurately represents how the movement of matter in the water cycle will be affected by the development? the decrease in vegetation will lower the chance of precipitation. the local lakes will experience almost no runoff as it will be blocked by the buildings. the groundwater table will be depleted as less water will be able to penetrate the ground. the plants will lose more water to the atmosphere since they are only isolated areas.

Explanation:

Before development, there is more vegetation which allows for higher evapo - transpiration (40 - 50%) and more interflow (20 - 30%). After development, with less vegetation, evapo - transpiration decreases to 20 - 30%, interflow decreases to 0 - 30%, and surface runoff increases to 20 - 30%. The decrease in interflow and increase in surface runoff mean less water penetrates the ground, which will deplete the groundwater table.

Answer:

The groundwater table will be depleted as less water will be able to penetrate the ground.