River landscapes Flashcards
(7 cards)
What is a drainage basin
A drainage basin is an area of land where all flowing surface water converges to a single point, such as a river mouth, or flows into another body of water, such as a lake or ocean.
It is also known as a watershed. The drainage basin is the area drained by a river and its tributaries.
How does a drainage basin work
A drainage basin is an area of land where water from precipitation collects and flows into a common outlet, such as a river or lake. It plays a crucial role in the Earth’s water cycle by channeling precipitation (rain or snow) into streams and rivers, which eventually flow into larger bodies of water.
What work do rivers do
Rivers provide:
habitats for wildlife
freshwater for settlements, agriculture, and other industries
resources for leisure and tourism
navigation for exploration, trade and commerce
a means to transport
nutrients and sediment
What landforms are found along a river
Landforms found in rivers include:
Waterfalls
V-shaped valleys
Potholes
Rapids
Meanders
Oxbow lakes
Braided channels
Floodplains
Deltas
Terraces
Why is the river Danube important
Historical Significance: It has played a vital role in the settlement and political evolution of central and southeastern Europe, serving as a boundary between empires and a commercial highway.
Economic Role: Today, it is crucial for the transportation of cargo, tourism, and as a freshwater supply, contributing significantly to the economies of the countries it flows through.
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Cultural Impact: The Danube shapes Europe’s cultural and historical narrative, influencing socio-economic dynamics across the continent.
Ecological Value: It supports biodiversity and provides various socio-cultural benefits, making it a vital ecological resource.
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Overall, the Danube River is a key geographical feature that has influenced the region’s history, economy, and culture.
What happens when there is too much water
Typically flooding occurs when there’s too much water and it has nowhere to go, generally if there is no rain then it is very unlikely to flood.
How can flooding be managed
Hard Engineering: This involves using artificial structures such as dams, levees, and dredging to control water flow and reduce flood risk.
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Soft Engineering: This approach focuses on natural methods, such as floodplain restoration and afforestation, which help absorb excess water and reduce runoff.
Flood Warnings: Implementing early warning systems can help communities prepare for potential flooding, allowing for timely evacuations and resource allocation.
Land Use Planning: Proper zoning and land use regulations can prevent construction in high-risk flood areas, reducing vulnerability.
These methods can be combined to create a comprehensive flood management strategy.
