======Rainfall Simulator======


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**Materials: **{{$demo.materials_description}}\\
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**Alternative titles:** Water Runoff and Land Use Simulation
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Set up a rainfall simulator containing different land-use models (such as natural grass, bare soil, agricultural fields, and paved surfaces).  
  - Simulate rainfall across all models at the same intensity.  
  - Collect the water that runs off each surface into separate containers.  
  - Observe differences in water clarity, volume of runoff, and infiltration rates.  
  - Compare and discuss how vegetation, soil cover, and impervious surfaces affect erosion, pollution, and water quality.



====Links==== 
Rainfall Simulator Demonstration for School Education - Upper Trinity Regional Water District: 
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====Variations====
  * Add fertilizer or soil to some plots to simulate nutrient pollution.  
  * Compare the effects of mulch, crop cover, or native grasses on runoff.  
  * Use different rainfall intensities to see how storm size impacts erosion and water quality.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Ensure all electrical components of the simulator (if used) are kept away from water.  
  * Handle soil, fertilizers, or pollutants with gloves if included in the demonstration.  
  * Clean up spills promptly to prevent slipping hazards.




====Questions to Consider====
  * Which type of land use produced the cleanest runoff water? (Natural vegetation absorbs water and filters pollutants best.)  
  * Which surface had the greatest amount of runoff? (Paved or impervious surfaces such as concrete.)  
  * How does vegetation reduce water pollution? (It slows runoff, allows infiltration, and filters out sediments and chemicals.)  
  * Why is it important to manage water runoff in urban areas? (To reduce flooding, prevent erosion, and improve water quality.)  
  * What conservation practices could improve water quality in agricultural land? (Cover crops, contour plowing, buffer strips, reduced fertilizer use.)