What does the term surface runoff describe?

The term surface runoff refers specifically to the water that flows over the ground surface and ultimately makes its way into bodies of water like rivers and streams after precipitation events such as rainfall. This process occurs when the soil is saturated and cannot absorb additional water, resulting in excess water flowing laterally across the land.

Understanding surface runoff is crucial in the context of water management and environmental science because it plays a significant role in the water cycle, influences watershed hydrology, and can impact sediment transport and water quality in rivers. This concept is especially important in managing water resources, flood control, and maintaining ecological balance in aquatic environments.