Waterfalls

Question 1

Where are they usually found

Answer 1

Upper course

Question 2

Describe the formation in 5 steps

Step 1

Answer 2

A waterfall is formed when a layer of hard rock is on top of a layer of soft rock

Question 3

Step 2

Answer 3

The river erodes the soft rock more easily, so there is a step in the river bed. Eventually this becomes deeper making a waterfall

Question 4

Step 3

Answer 4

Hydraulic action and abrasion make a plunge pool at the bottom of the water fall.

Question 5

Step 4

Answer 5

More erosion undercuts the hard rock, leaving it hanging over the plunge pool

Question 6

Step 5

Answer 6

The overhanging rock falls into the plunge pool, and the position of the waterfall moves backwards.