40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

What is defined as a low depression used in the soil for drainage?

1. Riverbed

2. Swale

3. Ditch

4. Gully

The correct answer is: Swale

The term that refers to a low depression in the soil specifically designed for drainage is known as a swale. This feature is typically used to manage water runoff and facilitate drainage in a landscape. Swales function by directing water away from structures and preventing flooding, while also promoting infiltration into the ground. They are often shaped as gentle slopes that allow for easier flow of water, capturing it in a way that minimizes erosion and promotes the health of the surrounding ecosystem. In contrast, while riverbeds, ditches, and gullies are related to drainage, they serve different purposes or configurations. Riverbeds are channels where rivers flow, ditches are usually narrower excavations specifically for water passage, and gullies are steeper channels often formed by erosion. Each of these features has distinct characteristics and functions, making swales unique in their design and functionality for managing drainage effectively.