In the context of water flow, what does "overland flow" typically lead to?

Overland flow refers to the movement of water across the land's surface, typically occurring when precipitation exceeds the soil's absorption capacity. As this water flows along the ground, it can pick up soil, debris, and other materials, resulting in a significant potential for soil erosion. This is particularly pronounced in areas with little vegetation cover, where the protective soil layer is more susceptible to being displaced by the flowing water.

Erosion can also lead to sedimentation in nearby water bodies, contributing to additional ecological impacts such as habitat degradation and altered water quality. This process is critical to understand in environmental science, as it highlights the relationship between water movement and soil stability in various ecosystems.