Geomorphology

Question 1

What are the two types of physical weathering? (4)

Answer 1

Freeze-thaw, when water seeps into cracks in the rock, and then it expands when it freezes, forcing the crack open.
Exfoliation, when rocks are repeatedly subjected to heat and cold, making layers peel off.

Question 2

What is biological weathering? (2)

Answer 2

When burrowing animals break up the rocks, and plant seeds fall into cracks and germinate, forcing the cracks open. Tree roots can also grow into cracks, widening them.

Question 3

What is chemical weathering? (1)

Answer 3

When acid rain attacks the rock, causing it to crumble.

Question 4

What are the 10 main river features? (10)

Answer 4

Watershed, source, tributary, confluence, meander, ox-bow lake, floodplain, estuary, mouth, delta.

Question 5

How is a v-shaped valley formed? (2)

Answer 5

This is a feature of erosion. It occurs when the river erodes downwards into the land by abrasion and hydraulic action. this is aclled vertical erosion. The valley sides are then shaped by the weather, plants, and animals.