Meanders

Question 1

Stage 1 formation

Answer 1

Alternating pools (deep water) and riffles (shallow water) develop at equally spaced intervals along a stretch of river

Question 2

Stage 2 formation

Answer 2

Spacing and distance between riffles and pools causes the river’s flow to become uneven.

Question 3

Stage 3 formation

Answer 3

Turbulence increases in and around pools as the water speeds up, flow of water begins to twist and coil

Question 4

Stage 4 formation

Answer 4

Helicoidal flow causes more erosion and deepening of the pools. Also eroded material is deposited on the inside of the bend

Question 5

Stage 5 formation

Answer 5

Combination of erosion and deposition exaggerates the bends till large meanders are formed.

Question 6

Features of pools and riffles

Answer 6

Pools are deeper and more efficient. Energy is lost due to riffles, because of friction

Question 7

How are oxbow lakes formed?

Answer 7

Oxbow lakes are formed when the neck of the loop of the meander is broken through, often during flooding. Deposition dams off the loop, leaving an oxbow lake