Lähdepoistuminen

Lähdepoistuminen, meaning "spring outflow" or "source runoff" in Finnish, refers to the hydrological process by which water emerges from a natural spring and begins to flow as a surface stream. Springs are points where groundwater emerges from the ground, often due to geological formations that bring the water table to the surface. The characteristics of the outflow, including its volume, temperature, and chemical composition, are directly influenced by the aquifer from which the water originates.

The water in a spring is typically groundwater that has been filtered through the earth, often resulting in clear and clean water. The flow rate can vary significantly, from a trickle to a substantial stream, and is influenced by factors such as rainfall, snowmelt, and the size and recharge rate of the aquifer. Springs can be found in diverse environments, from forests and mountains to low-lying wetlands. They are ecologically important, providing a consistent water source for various plant and animal life. Historically, springs have also been significant for human settlement and as sources of drinking water. The term lähdepoistuminen specifically highlights the transition from a stationary groundwater source to active surface flow.