Fluvial Landforms Flashcards
Why do rapids form?
Because there is stripes of more and less resistant rock which causes slight drops in gradient. This forms fast flowing, white water.
What is the result of waterfalls collapsing?
A gorge of recession as it moves backwards.
Why are flood plains so fertile?
Because the sediment deposited when the river floods is very good for crops.
Why does braiding occur?
When there is a variable discharge in a river, for example when it is near a glacier or snow fields.
What are the 2 types of deltas?
Arcuate and birdsfoot
What are the islands in deltas and braiding called?
Eyots
How are potholes formed?
Eddies are formed during times of turbulent flow, these catch rocks which are smashed against the rock bed forming a hole in the bed. Eventually this causes rocks to be caught in the hole thus causing more abrasion making the hole bigger as it drill down.
