Fluvial Landforms

energy: gradient = vertical/horizontal, channel shape, channel roughness, vegetation

Erosion - high energy; hydraulic action, abrasion, corrosion (dissolution); downward erosion, V-shaped valleys, lateral erosion, headward erosion

Deposition - loss in energy; delta - stream meets calm water (usually ocean), alluvial fan - abrupt change in gradient, flood plain, levee, meandering stream - point bar, cut bank, oxbow lake, braided stream - longitudinal bar

 


Describe the factors that control the energy of a stream. How does energy affect erosion? deposition?

Describe the three main processes by which streams cause erosion. Also, describe the three general ways in which erosion can change the size and shape of a stream. (downward erosion, lateral erosion, headward erosion)

Compare and contrast the different types of stream deposits: deltas, alluvial fans, levees, floodplains, and point bars.

Compare and contrast meandering streams and braided streams. Describe the types of deposits associated with each.


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