Identifying Slopes Flashcards
Gradient:
Describes steepness of a slope. Compares angle of slope to a level surface.
If a slope has a steep gradient…
There is a body height difference between two places close together
If a slope has a gentle gradient…
The places are far apart and not much height difference.
River Valley:
Land a river flows over.
Contour lines form an upside down ‘v’ to point UPstream!
E.g. ‘/'
Spur:
Narrow pieces of land that extend into or between river valleys.
Contour of a spur form a ‘u’ to form DOWNhill!
Ridge:
Long area of high ground with lower found surrounding. “Valley” of ridge is called a saddle.
Pass:
Gap between two areas of high ground. Could have a road going over it.
Water shed:
High ground separated by two river systems. Often runs along a ridge.
Gorge:
Narrow, steep sides valley. Often has river flowing through.
Mesa:
Flat topped hill which is wider than it is high.
Butte:
Flat topped hill, higher than it is wide.
Cuesta:
Scarp:
Dip:
Hill steep on one side and gentle on the other.
Scarp is the steep part.
Dip is the gentle slope.
