Feature: V-Shaped Valley When a river is in its youthful stage, it erodes vertically (downwards). This forms a valley with steep sides and a narrow floor. The is called a V-shaped valley as it looks like the letter V. V-shaped valleys are a feature of erosion in a river.
Example: A V-shaped valley can be seen in the youthful stage of the River Liffey. How a V-Shaped Valley Forms Eroding down
Weathering transport Slope
V-shaped valley
1. The river erodes downwards by hydraulic action. The valley is deepened by vertical erosion.
2. As the river cuts down, the steep sides are attacked by weathering. This breaks up and loosens the soil and rock.
7. The formation of a V-shaped valley Managing information and thinking
In your copy, sketch or trace the stages of formation of a V-shaped valley. Make sure to include labels.
Feature: Interlocking Spurs
Interlocking spurs are areas of high ground that jut out on either side of the river and appear to lock together.
Example: Interlocking spurs can be seen in the upper course of the River Slaney.
3. The loosened material slowly creeps down the slope because of gravity or is washed into the river by rainwater. The river carries it away.
4. The end result is a steep-sided valley that has the shape of the letter ‘V’.