Rivers questions

Question 1

Define the term weathering.

Answer 1

Weathering is the wearing away in situ of the river valley sides.

Question 2

Name the two other types of weathering.

Answer 2

Biological and chemical.

Question 3

Define the term transport.

Answer 3

Transport is the way in which the river carries eroded material or load.

Question 4

Define the term long profile of a river.

Answer 4

It shows the height and distance downstream from the river’s source to its mouth.

Question 5

Explain one way that agriculture can affect river processes.

Answer 5

• Field drains can improve farmland. They can quickly move water into streams and rivers.

Question 6

Define the term hard engineering.

Answer 6

It involves building structures as a defence against flooding.

Question 7

Identify the area which is the source of the River Dee.

Answer 7

Ddualit.

Question 8

Explain the differences between hard and soft engineering.

Answer 8

Hard engineering:

• Involves building structures.
• Dams, channelization.

Soft engineering:

• It uses natural processes.
• Floodplain zoning.
• Wash lands.

Question 9

Explain one process of mass movement.

Answer 9

Sliding:
- This is where rock, weathered or eroded material or earth moves down a slope. Gravity pulls the weakened material quickly downwards.

Question 10

Compare the process of hydraulic action and attrition.

Answer 10

Hydraulic action:
- The force of the water on the bed and banks of the river removes material.

Attrition:
- The load that is carried by the river bumps together and wears down into smaller, smoother pieces.

Question 11

Which year had the highest rainfall?

Answer 11

2014.

Question 12

Explain how landform x formed.

Answer 12

• When flooding occurs, the heaviest material is deposited first due to the decrease in the river’s energy. This material creates natural embankments called levees.

Question 13

Explain how human processes are contributing to river flooding on one named river.

Answer 13

Industry:

• Industry is a big user of water, so can reduce the amount of water in rivers leading to less erosion.
• Industrial processes can pollute rivers if chemicals or waste are soiled or dumped into them. This can destroy plants and animals and change the natural landscape.

Question 14

Explain the differences between hard and soft engineering.

Answer 14

Hard:
- Involves building structures.

Soft:
- Uses natural processes.