Physical Geography - Topic 19 - Rivers

A series of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to rivers and fluvial processes.

Fluvial Processes

Refers to the processes associated with rivers and streamflow.

Alluvium

Sediment deposited by flowing water, typically found in river beds.

Base Level

The lowest point to which a stream can erode, defined by John Wesley Powell.

Graded Stream

A stream with a smooth profile that adjusts to the balance of sediment supply and stream flow.

Oxbow Lake

A U-shaped body of water formed when a wide meander of a river is cut off.

Point Bar Deposits

Accumulations of sediment that form on the inside bends of meandering rivers.

Dendritic Pattern

A river drainage pattern resembling tree branches, indicating little geological control.

Rectangular Pattern

A river drainage pattern formed by the branching over cracks or joints in rocks.

Radial Pattern

A drainage pattern that radiates outward from a central point, typical of volcanic areas.

Geothermal Gradient

The rate at which temperature increases with depth beneath the Earth's surface.

Geyser

An intermittent hot spring that erupts water and steam due to pressure build-up.

Fumarole

A hot spring that has dried up and emits only steam.

Geothermal Energy

Energy derived from the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface.