In the previous chapters, you learned how rock is gradually broken down through weathering. You also learned the difference between weathering and erosion. In this chapter, you will learn how rivers erode and deposit materials as they flow towards the sea. As rivers erode and deposit along the landscape, they create unique landforms. These landforms are not permanent and disappear over time. River processes are also referred to as fluvial processes.
KEY WORDS
l Erosion l Transportation l Deposition l Discharge l Velocity l Gradient l Turbulent flow l River basin l Tributaries
l Watershed l Drainage patterns l Dendritic l Trellised l Radial l Deranged l Upper course/youthful stage l Middle course/mature stage l Lower course/old age
LEARNING OUTCOMES
What you MUST know l The processes of erosion l The river profile l The processes of transportation l A landform of erosion l A landform of deposition l Human interaction with rivers l River rejuvenation l How to identify the main features of erosion and deposition on OS maps, aerial photographs and diagrams
What you SHOULD know l About a river’s energy l A second process of erosion l A second process of deposition
What is USEFUL to know l Additional named Irish examples of studied features
l Hydraulic action l Abrasion l Attrition l Solution l Waterfall l V-shaped valley l Meander l Oxbow lake l Delta
