RIVERS: Channel Processes - Erosion & Deposition Flashcards
1
Q
What is abrasion?
A
Wearing away of the bed and bank by the load carried by the river.
2
Q
What is attrition?
A
Wearing away of the load carried by the river - creates smaller, rounder particles.
3
Q
What is hydraulic action?
A
Occurs as river tumbles over a waterfall and crashes and erodes rocks below.
4
Q
When does deposition occur?
A
When a river loses energy.
5
Q
Why does a river lose energy? (3)
A
- Shallowing of gradient, which decreases velocity and energy.
- Decrease in volume of water in the river.
- Human obstructions such as dams.
