Final answer:
The natural discharge of groundwater into streams that maintains a minimal stream flow is called baseflow. Groundwater flows slowly through the ground and eventually reaches a stream or lake, replenishing the surface water. Baseflow is essential for sustaining aquatic ecosystems and water resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
The natural discharge of groundwater into streams that maintains a minimal stream flow is called baseflow. Baseflow refers to the portion of streamflow that comes from groundwater seeping into streams over a longer period of time, rather than from immediate surface runoff after a rainstorm.
Groundwater is a significant reservoir of fresh water that exists in the pores between particles in the ground or in the fissures in rocks. It can flow slowly through these pores and fissures and eventually reach a stream or lake where it becomes part of the surface water again.
Baseflow plays a crucial role in maintaining a minimum stream flow, which is important for sustaining aquatic ecosystems and ensuring the availability of water resources for human use.