What does the speed of water flowing downhill depend on?

The speed of water flowing downhill is primarily influenced by the slope of the terrain. A steeper slope results in a greater gravitational force acting on the water, which increases its velocity as it flows. Conversely, a gentler slope would allow the water to flow more slowly, as the gravitational pull is less pronounced.

While factors like volume, temperature, and width can influence various aspects of water flow, such as the overall flow rate or the behavior of water at certain temperatures, the direct relationship between slope and the speed of flow is the most significant. This is because the steepness of the slope dictates how quickly gravity can pull the water downwards, making it a critical factor in determining flow speed.