If the soil of a region becomes completely water-saturated, what is the immediate result of subsequent rainfall?

Correct answer: Surface runoff will increase greatly and flooding may occur

Correct answer: B. Infiltration is the movement of water from the land surface into soil. At first, unsaturated soil has pore spaces that can accept some rainfall. Once the soil becomes saturated, most or all readily available pore space is filled with water, so its capacity to accept additional rainfall becomes very small. If rain continues, the excess water moves across the surface as runoff. When this runoff is large and rapid, it can collect in channels and low-lying areas and produce flooding. A is the opposite of the expected result after saturation. C is too absolute: plants may still transpire if they have functioning roots and atmospheric conditions permit, although waterlogging can damage roots. D is not the immediate consequence; additional water generally tends to recharge groundwater or run off. Memory cue: saturated soil has “no empty pores left,” so extra rain runs off.