Which of the following best describes impervious surfaces?

Which of the following best describes impervious surfaces?

• A. Surfaces that allow water to infiltrate quickly
• B. Surfaces that are permeable and support plant growth
• C. Surfaces that do not allow water to pass through
• D. Surfaces that are primarily made of soil

Answer: (C)

Impervious surfaces are defined as surfaces that do not allow water to pass through them. This characteristic is critical in the context of erosion and sediment control, as these surfaces can lead to increased runoff since rainwater cannot infiltrate the ground. When water cannot absorb into the soil, it washes over the surface, picking up pollutants and leading to sedimentation in surrounding areas, such as streams and wetlands. Examples of impervious surfaces include concrete, asphalt, and certain types of roofing materials. The other options describe various qualities of surfaces that allow for water movement and infiltration, which directly contrasts with the defined characteristics of impervious surfaces. Understanding this distinction is essential for managing stormwater and mitigating environmental impacts in land development and construction.

Impervious surfaces are defined as surfaces that do not allow water to pass through them. This characteristic is critical in the context of erosion and sediment control, as these surfaces can lead to increased runoff since rainwater cannot infiltrate the ground. When water cannot absorb into the soil, it washes over the surface, picking up pollutants and leading to sedimentation in surrounding areas, such as streams and wetlands. Examples of impervious surfaces include concrete, asphalt, and certain types of roofing materials.

The other options describe various qualities of surfaces that allow for water movement and infiltration, which directly contrasts with the defined characteristics of impervious surfaces. Understanding this distinction is essential for managing stormwater and mitigating environmental impacts in land development and construction.