Surface Processes: Gravity & Running Water

Front

What is a river delta?

Back

A river delta is a landform that forms at the mouth of a river where it meets a body of water, such as an ocean or lake, and where sediment carried by the river is deposited.

Front

What is the principle of deposition in river systems?

Back

Deposition occurs when the velocity of a river decreases, causing it to drop the sediment it carries, leading to the formation of features like deltas and sandbars.

Front

What factors influence the rate of erosion in a river?

Back

Factors include water velocity, sediment load, riverbank composition, and vegetation cover.

Front

Define stream velocity.

Back

Stream velocity is the speed at which water flows in a stream, typically measured in centimeters per second (cm/s).

Front

What is the relationship between stream velocity and sediment transport?

Back

Higher stream velocity increases the capacity of a stream to transport larger and more sediment.

Front

What is a floodplain?

Back

A floodplain is a flat area adjacent to a river that is subject to flooding and is formed by sediment deposition during flood events.

Front

How does a meandering stream differ from a straight stream?

Back

A meandering stream has curves and bends, which create varying velocities and sediment deposition patterns, while a straight stream flows in a more direct path.

Front

What is the significance of a sandbar in a river system?

Back

A sandbar is a submerged or exposed ridge of sand that forms in a river due to sediment deposition, affecting water flow and habitat.

Front

Explain the concept of stream gradient.

Back

Stream gradient is the slope of the streambed, calculated as the vertical drop in elevation over a certain horizontal distance.

Front

What happens to sediment transport when stream velocity decreases?

Back

When stream velocity decreases, the stream loses its ability to carry sediment, leading to increased deposition within the stream channel.