Fluvial Processes and Erosion (Chapter 17)

Question 1

What are the three types of stream loads?

Answer 1

1. Dissolved load (minerals in solution), 2. Suspended load (fine sediments like silt and clay), 3. Bed load (larger particles moved along the streambed).

Question 2

Define alluvium.

Answer 2

Sediments deposited on a floodplain by flowing water.

Question 3

What is a delta?

Answer 3

An accumulation of sediments where a stream reaches base level.

Question 4

Describe stream sorting.

Answer 4

As a stream slows, larger sediments settle out first (gravel, sand), while finer particles like silt and clay travel farther and settle last.

Question 5

How do beavers influence stream ecology?

Answer 5

They build dams that create ponds, conserve water during droughts, and support diverse ecosystems.