Geography Exam Practice: Infiltration, Coral Reefs, and Permafrost

Geography Exam Practice: Hydrology and Ecosystems

M11/3/GEOGR/BP2/ENG/TZ0/XX

1. (a) Factors Influencing Infiltration Rates

Describe two conditions at point A which may make infiltration rates higher than at point B. [2×2 marks]

Possible answers include:

• Interception by vegetation
• Slope angle
• Snow melt
• Non-frozen ground
• Soil characteristics (porosity, infiltration capacity)
• Water content of the soil
• Antecedent precipitation
• Intensity of the precipitation

Award [1 mark] for identifying each factor and [1 mark] for explaining how it influences infiltration.

3. (b) Benefits of Coral Reefs

Explain three benefits that coral reefs bring to people. [3×2 marks]

Key benefits include:

• Building materials
• Tourism
• Absorption of CO2
• Natural coastal protection
• Maintenance of biodiversity and fish stocks
• Biological links to mangroves

Award [2 marks] for each relevant explanation: [1 mark] for identification and [1 mark] for elaboration or exemplification.

5. (c) Impacts of Permafrost on Human Activities

Examine the impacts of permafrost on human activities. [10 marks]

Human activities are fundamentally affected by the presence of permafrost. The constant threat of thawing requires a range of adaptations to avoid harm to subsistence livelihoods and damage to infrastructure. Techniques must often be modified at additional costs for the construction and maintenance of:

• Railroads and roads
• Buildings
• Water and sewer lines
• Oil and gas pipelines
• Dams, bridges, and airfields

Future improvements in engineering, careful geological site selection, and further study will allow for successful expansion into polar areas. To reach the highest mark bands, candidates should:

• Examine negative impacts while considering how challenges can be overcome.
• Analyze spatial or temporal variability (e.g., challenges in discontinuous permafrost or active layer activity).
• Provide supporting examples to strengthen the response.