How is surface water runoff defined?

Surface water runoff is defined as water that flows over the land surface to water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. This process occurs when precipitation falls onto the ground and cannot be absorbed by the soil, either due to saturation or because the ground is impervious. Instead of infiltrating the ground, this excess water moves across the land, collecting in various channels and eventually reaching larger bodies of water.

Understanding runoff is crucial for various reasons, including managing water resources, preventing erosion, and addressing water quality issues. It also plays a significant role in the hydrological cycle, affecting how ecosystems function and how water is distributed across the landscape.

The other choices represent different water-related processes that do not align with the definition of surface water runoff. Water storage in underground aquifers pertains to groundwater, while evaporation refers to the transformation of water from liquid to vapor. Lastly, the process of water seeping through soil layers relates to groundwater recharge and infiltration, further distinct from the concept of surface water runoff.