TBSHS GCSE Geography: Rivers 2 - Characteristics

This diagram shows the height and distance downstream from the river's source to its mouth

• Gradient map

• Cross profile

• Cross section

• Long profile

This diagram shows shows the shape of a feature or landscape as if it was cut through sideways

• Long profile

• Cross section

• Line graph

• Scattergraph

The volume of water flowing in a river at a certain point, measured in cubic metres per second (cumecs)

• Velocity

• Cross-sectional area

• Hydraulic radius

• Discharge

How is the discharge at a point in a river calculated?

(Discharge is measured in cubic metres per second)

• Average velocity (m/s) x width (m)

• Cross-sectional area (m²) x average velocity (m/s)

• Average depth (m) x average velocity (m/s)

Here the river is eroding downwards very quickly

• Upper course

• Middle course

• Lower course

Here the river usually has meanders which erode sideways, broadening the valley

• Upper course

• Middle course

• Lower course

Here there is high discharge and mainly deposition

• Upper course

• Middle course

• Lower course

Typical characteristics of the upper course of a river:

• Steep gradient

• Shallow gradient

• Angular boulders

• Smooth, rounded pebbles

Typical characteristics of the middle course of a river:

• Steep gradient

• Meanders

• Angular boulders

• Floodplain

Typical characteristics of the lower course of a river:

• Large discharge

• Steep-sided valley profile

• Shallow depth

• Fast velocity