River Landforms

What is a meander in the context of river landforms?

• A straight section of a river

• A bend or curve in a river

• A waterfall

• A steep-sided valley

Answer explanation

A meander refers to a bend or curve in a river, formed by the erosion and deposition of sediment. This distinguishes it from straight sections, waterfalls, or steep-sided valleys, making 'a bend or curve in a river' the correct choice.

How is an oxbow lake formed?

• By the deposition of sediment in a river

• By the erosion of a riverbank

• When a meander is cut off from the main river

• By the melting of a glacier

Answer explanation

An oxbow lake is formed when a meander in a river is cut off from the main flow, creating a crescent-shaped lake. This occurs due to erosion and sediment deposition, isolating the meander from the river.

Which of the following is a process of river erosion?

• Traction

• Saltation

• Hydraulic action

• Deposition

Answer explanation

Hydraulic action is a process of river erosion where the force of water impacts the riverbed and banks, causing material to be dislodged and carried away. Traction and saltation refer to sediment transport, while deposition is the opposite of erosion.

What is the main feature of river deposition?

• Waterfalls

• Gorges

• Floodplains

• Rapids

Answer explanation

Floodplains are the main feature of river deposition, as they are areas where sediment is deposited when rivers overflow their banks, creating fertile land. Other options like waterfalls and gorges are related to erosion, not deposition.

What is a floodplain?

• A steep-sided valley

• A flat area of land next to a river

• A narrow channel of water

• A deep pool of water

Answer explanation

A floodplain is defined as a flat area of land next to a river that is prone to flooding. This distinguishes it from other options like steep-sided valleys or narrow channels, which do not fit the definition.

What are levees?

• Natural embankments formed by the deposition of sediment

• Man-made barriers to prevent flooding

• Deep pools in a river

• Steep waterfalls

Answer explanation

Levees are natural embankments formed by the deposition of sediment along riverbanks. They help to contain river flow and prevent flooding, distinguishing them from man-made barriers.

How is a waterfall formed?

• By the deposition of sediment

• By the erosion of soft rock beneath hard rock

• By the melting of ice

• By the accumulation of debris

Answer explanation

A waterfall is formed by the erosion of soft rock beneath hard rock. As the softer material erodes away, the harder rock above collapses, creating a drop that results in a waterfall.

The River Tees has the biggest waterfall in the UK, which is called ____ _____ Waterfall

What is a gorge?

• A wide, flat area of land

• A narrow, steep-sided valley

• A large body of water

• A shallow riverbed

Answer explanation

A gorge is defined as a narrow, steep-sided valley, typically formed by the erosion of a river. This distinguishes it from other landforms like flat areas or bodies of water.

Which part of a river is typically found in the upper course?

• Meanders

• Waterfalls

• Floodplains

• Estuaries

Answer explanation

In the upper course of a river, the landscape is steep and characterized by features like waterfalls, which occur due to the river's high energy and gradient. Meanders, floodplains, and estuaries are found in lower courses.