The river valley

Question 1

Upper course

Answer 1

Steep gradient , v-shaped valley, steep sides, narrow and shallow channel.

Question 2

Middle course

Answer 2

Medium gradient, gently sloping valley sides, wider and deeper channel.

Question 3

Lower course

Answer 3

Gentle gradient, very wide, almost flat valley, very wide and deep channel.

Question 4

Vertical erosion

Answer 4

This deepens the river valley makes it V-shaped. It is dominant in upper course of the river. High turbulence causes the rough, angular particles to be scraped along the river bed, causing intense downwards erosion.

Question 5

Lateral erosion

Answer 5

This widens the river valley during the formation of meanders. It is dominant in the middle and lower course of the river.