Formation of a meander

Question 1

Point 1
(meanders are usually…)

Answer 1

Meanders are usually found in the middle and lower courses.

Question 2

Point 2
(Riffles and pools lead to…)

Answer 2

Riffles and pools lead to changes in speed and depths in the river channel. Pools are areas of deeper water. Riffles are areas of shallower water with greater turbulence.

Question 3

Point 3
(The rivers flows fastest…)

Answer 3

The river flows fastest on the outside bend increasing erosive power. Helicoidal flow occurs in the river- on the outside bend the water flows down the bank, further causing erosion.

Question 4

Point 4
(Hydraulic action and…)

Answer 4

Hydraulic action and abrasion wear away the bank on the outside of the meander.

Question 5

Point 5
(Hydraulic action is when…)

Answer 5

Hydraulic action is when air is compressed into the riverbank, causing materials to be dislodged.

Question 6

Point 6
(Abrasion is…)

Answer 6

Abrasion is when the force of the water throws bedload against the banks causing erosion.

Question 7

Point 7
(The river flows slowest…)

Answer 7

The river flows slowest on the inside bend leading to deposition and forming a river beach.

Question 8

Point 8
(The helicoidal flow moves…)

Answer 8

The helicoidal flow moves materials across the river channel providing further material for the river beach.

Question 9

Point 9
(Meanders migrate…)

Answer 9

Meanders migrate downstream as erosion continues.