The Upper Course Of A River

Question 1

Define source

Answer 1

The start of a river (often upland/upstream)

Question 2

Define meander

Answer 2

A bend in a river caused by erosion

Question 3

How do V-Shaped Valleys form

Answer 3

A rivers discharge is low in the upper course so the river only has enough energy to flow downwards

The valley sides are broken down through weathering

The weathering material is transported via gravity and rainfall toward the river channel. This process steepens the valleys sides

The steep sides and narrow valley shape that is created is typical in upland rivers

Question 4

How does a waterfall develop?

Answer 4

A waterfall develops when resistant rock is on top of soft rock.

When the soft rock is eroded by the water falling down it creates an overhang and undercuts it.

Eventually, the force from the water creates a plunge pool.

And finally once the resistant rock can’t take the pressure of the water on top (due to no support from the soft rock beneath) it collapses