The 'flow duration curve' (FDC) in hydrology represents:
Choose the correct answer
Flood peak frequency analysis only
Percentage of time a given streamflow is equalled or exceeded — used for water availability, hydropower, and environmental flow assessment
Only the maximum annual flood
Flow velocity at different depths
Correct Answer
B. Percentage of time a given streamflow is equalled or exceeded — used for water availability, hydropower, and environmental flow assessment
AI Detailed Explanation & IS Code Reference
Unlock the reasoning, formula path and code-linked notes inside your student dashboard.
Flow Duration Curve (FDC): cumulative frequency curve showing % of time a given flow (or lower) is equalled or exceeded. X-axis: % exceedance; Y-axis: flow (m³/s). Q50 = median flow; Q75 = low flow; Q95 = drought flow. Steep FDC: flashy stream. Flat FDC: regulated/groundwater-fed stream. Used for: hydropower potential (firm vs secondary power), water availability analysis, environmental flow.
ScoreCardAI links this solution with subject, topic and difficulty signals so your scorecard can identify weak areas after a full mock test.
Practice more Civil Engineering questions
This MCQ belongs to JE Level Premium Test Series. Full tests include timed attempts, rank comparison and subject-wise analysis.