afvandingsområde

An afvandingsområde, also known as a drainage basin or watershed, is a geographical region where all precipitation (rain, snow, etc.) that falls eventually drains into a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean. The boundaries of an afvandingsområde are determined by the topography of the land, specifically by the ridges and high points that direct water flow. Any precipitation landing on one side of a ridge will flow into a different afvandingsområde than precipitation landing on the other side.

The size of an afvandingsområde can vary greatly, from a small area draining into a local stream to a vast region encompassing major river systems. The characteristics of an afvandingsområde, including its size, shape, slope, soil type, and vegetation cover, significantly influence the amount of water that flows through it, the speed at which it flows, and the quality of the water. These factors are crucial for understanding water resources, managing floods, and planning for water-related infrastructure. Humans impact afvandingsområder through activities such as urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation, which can alter natural drainage patterns and affect water quality and quantity.