Which of the following refers to the part of a river's discharge provided by groundwater seeping into the riverbed?

Baseflow is the component of a river's discharge that is sustained by the inflow of groundwater. It represents the portion of the river's flow that comes from aquifers or underground water sources seeping into the riverbed. This process typically occurs during dry periods when precipitation is minimal, ensuring that the river maintains a consistent flow even when surface runoff is low. The constant contribution of groundwater helps stabilize river ecosystems, particularly in regions where surface water input is variable.

In the context of hydrology, baseflow plays a crucial role in the overall health of the river, influencing water quality and habitat availability for aquatic organisms. Understanding baseflow is essential for effective water resource management, especially in assessing the impacts of land use and climate change on river systems.