Geography rivers definitions

has all the definitions needed for GCSE

Cap Rock

Layer of hard resistant rock forming the 'step' over which the 'falls' occur in a waterfall.

Delta

A river mouth in which sediments accumulate due to ocean currents being insufficient to remove them.

Distributaries

Branches of a river that flow away from the main stream and do not return to it, often seen at a delta.

Estuary

A river mouth that is kept clear of sediments by the currents of the ocean.

Floodplain

The area of land around a river channel that is formed during times of flood with deposition of rich silt.

Gorge

A steep sided valley left behind as a waterfall retreats upstream.

Interlocking Spur

Ridges of more resistant rock around which a river winds, forming where the river swings from side to side.

Levées

Raised river banks formed by deposition or artificial structures to reduce flood risk.

Load

The collective term for the material carried by a river.

Meander

A bend in a river.

Meander scar

Feature left behind when the water in an ox-bow lake dries up.

Ox-bow lake

A lake formed when a meander neck narrows and is cut through, isolating the old meander bend.

Plunge Pool

A deep pool beneath a waterfall.

River Cliff

A small cliff formed on the outside of a meander bend due to erosion.

Slip off Slope

A small beach found on the inside of a meander bend where deposition has occurred.

V-shaped Valley

A valley that resembles a 'v' in cross-section with steep sloping sides and a narrow bottom.

Waterfall

A cascade of water over a hard rock step in the upper course of a river.