Landforms: Valleys

Front

What is a valley?

Back

A valley is a low area of land between hills or mountains, often formed by the action of rivers or glaciers.

Front

How are most valleys formed?

Back

Most valleys are formed by rivers that erode the land over time.

Front

What are rift valleys?

Back

Rift valleys are valleys formed by the movement of tectonic plates, creating a low area between them.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's surface by wind, water, or ice.

Front

What are gorges?

Back

Gorges are narrow valleys with steep sides, often formed by the erosion of a river.

Front

What role do rivers play in valley formation?

Back

Rivers shape valleys by eroding the land, creating a path that can widen and deepen over time.

Front

What is the difference between a valley and a canyon?

Back

A canyon is a deep valley with steep sides, typically formed by river erosion, while a valley can be broader and less steep.

Front

What is a floodplain?

Back

A floodplain is a flat area of land next to a river that is prone to flooding.

Front

What are the characteristics of a U-shaped valley?

Back

U-shaped valleys are formed by glacial activity and have a wide, flat bottom with steep sides.

Front

What is a V-shaped valley?

Back

A V-shaped valley is formed by river erosion and has a narrow bottom with steep sides.