Year 10 Rivers Catch Up

Which method of transportation is large sediment being rolled along the bed of the river?

• Solution

• Saltation

• Traction

• Suspension

Answer explanation

Traction is the process where sediment is too heavy to be lifted as the river doesn't have enough energy. This means that it is pushed instead of lifted and slowly rolls. This happens most commonly in the upper course of the river.

The method of transportation where sediment bounces along the river bed (hops or leapfrogs) is known as...

Answer explanation

Saltation hasn't got anything to do with Salt. It comes from an old word meaning to 'dance'. The sediment is smaller than large boulders seen in traction, so they are lifted up, but only for a short period of time, allowing the sediment to bounce along the bed.

Which method of transportation do you think this diagram is demonstrating?

• Solution

• Suspension

• Saltation

• Traction

Answer explanation

The particles are suspended in the air. This is because they are smaller, so the water can carry them without having to put them on the ground.

Place an X on the diagram to show where the more-resistant rock would be in the formation of a waterfall

Answer explanation

The more resistant rock is on the top layer of the waterfall. It overhangs the softer rock which is eroded more quickly below.

What is the name of the area highlighted by the yellow and red arrow on the diagram?

Which of the 4 types of erosion is NOT involved in the formation of a waterfall and gorge?

• Hydraulic Action

• Abrasion

• Attrition

• Solution

Answer explanation

Attrition is the process of rocks eroding each other, rather than the surface or river bed being worn away.

V-Shaped Valleys can be found in the _____ course of the river.

A V-Shaped Valley is formed by ________ erosion

Which type of weathering contributes to the formation of V-Shaped Valleys?

• Biological

• Mechanical

• Chemical

What landform is shown in the diagram?