Question

The peak flows of the Colorado River at Lee's Ferry are generally below ______ m3/s.

a. 3,700
b. 8,500
c. 2,800
d. 5,000
e. 6,200

Answer 1

The Colorado River at Lee's Ferry generally peaks below 850 m³/s, informed by various factors such as weather patterns, snowmelt, and the impact of water management structures like dams.

Step-by-step explanation:

The peak flows of the Colorado River at Lee's Ferry are generally below 850 m³/s. This flow rate is more consistent with historical and geological data than some of the higher figures mentioned.

Typically, river flow rates are determined by a number of factors including precipitation, snowmelt, and human interventions such as dam constructions and water diversions. For example, the flow restrictions due to the Hoover Dam (which has a maximum flow rate of about 650 m³/s) can also impact downstream flow rates such as those at Lee's Ferry.