In a typical stream, where the gradient is steep, the discharge ____.
Choose one answer.
a. is large
b. cannot be determined
c. is small
d. is very large

Question

In a typical stream, where the gradient is steep, the discharge ____.
Choose one answer.
	a. is large 	
	b. cannot be determined 	
	c. is small 	
	d. is very large

blues · Answer

The gradient of what?

If the question refers to the stream flowing downhill, I think it cannot be determined. Gradient determines rate of flow but not the total volume or discharge. Of course, if gradient refers to the distribution of oxygen or some other dissolved gas or nutrient in the stream (which is a perfectly valid interpretation of the word), then that is a totally different issue.

In addition to posting just the question, you should also post what about it you do not understand and would like help with.