What is runoff?

Runoff refers to water that flows over the surface of the land, typically after precipitation such as rain. This process is an important part of the water cycle, as it allows water to move from higher ground into streams, rivers, and eventually the ocean. Runoff can carry soil, nutrients, and other materials with it, influencing both aquatic ecosystems and the health of the land it flows over. This movement can lead to erosion and can also affect water quality in bodies of water where the runoff ends up. Understanding runoff is critical in the study of environmental science, as it has significant implications for agriculture, water management, and ecology.