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Analyse the data shown in Figure 1 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 1
Analyse the data shown in Figure 1. Figure 1 shows rainfall data, a measured hydrograph and a simulated hydrograph for Taguibo Watershed in Mindanao Island, souther... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 1 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Analysis of Rainfall Impact on Discharge
Answer
The data illustrates that rainfall has a significant impact on the discharge as represented in the hydrographs. During the peak rainfall period, particularly on 14/04/07, there is a marked increase in discharge. The initial response of the measured discharge appears to occur approximately 2 hours after rainfall begins, highlighting a lag time that can be attributed to runoff and drainage basin characteristics.
Step 2
Comparison between Measured and Simulated Hydrographs
Answer
The measured hydrograph (in red) shows fluctuations in discharge, contrasting with the simulated hydrograph (in black) which has a smoother appearance. The simulated discharge also peaks around the same time as the measured data; however, it tends to underestimate the peak discharge, deviating by more than 2 m³/s during peak periods. This discrepancy highlights the difference between the predictive model and actual measurements.
Step 3
Trends Observed in Discharge Over Time
Answer
The analysis reveals that the discharge peaks are sustained for shorter durations in the simulated hydrograph compared to the measured hydrograph, which remains elevated for longer. The lag time observed in the measured data suggests more complexity in real-world hydrological responses than what the simulation captures.