Which of the following is an accurate description of characteristics of the water cycle in an urban area? A - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 2

In urban areas, the water cycle is significantly altered due to human activities and land use changes. The presence of impermeable surfaces, such as roads and buildings, leads to decreased infiltration rates. As a result, more water runs off the surface rather than soaking into the ground. This increase in surface runoff can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flooding.

Moreover, throughflow, which refers to the lateral movement of water through soil, is also reduced in urban areas because the compacted soil and urban landscape reduce the permeability of the ground. Therefore, the correct answer is C: 'Decreased infiltration, increased surface runoff, reduced throughflow.'