River-erosion: Illustrations river-erosion processes and the landforms that are associated

with it.

Introduction

River erosion is the process by which flowing water erodes and removes rock, sediment, and soil

from the river bed, banks, and surrounding areas (McCloskey et al., 2016). The different

processes of river erosion and their resultant features are as follows:

Hydraulic Action: This process involves the force of water dislodging and transporting rock and

sediment downstream. The result of hydraulic action can be the formation of:

Potholes: These are cylindrical holes that are formed by the swirling action of water carrying

pebbles and gravel that erode the bedrock.

Figure 1. Potholes

Plunge pools: These are deep depressions or pools that form at the base of waterfalls. The force

of the falling water erodes the rock, creating a bowl-shaped depression.

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Figure 2. Plunge pools

Waterfalls: These are formed where a river flows over a layer of hard rock followed by a layer of

softer rock. The water erodes the softer rock faster than the hard rock, creating a vertical drop.

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Figure 3. Waterfall

Abrasion: This process involves sediment carried by the river grinding against the river bed and

banks, wearing away rock and soil. The result of abrasion can be the formation of:

River terraces: These are flat, stepped surfaces that form above the level of the river (Maltsev &

Yermolaev 2020). They are created as a result of the river eroding its banks and leaving behind

layers of sediment.

Meanders: These are sinuous bends in the river channel. The force of the water erodes the outer

banks of the bend and deposits sediment on the inside of the bend, causing the channel to shift.

Figure 4. meanders

V-shaped valleys: These are valleys that are formed by a river eroding the sides of a mountain

or hill. The water flows down the slope, eroding the rock and creating a steep-sided valley.

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Figure 5. V-shaped valley

Corrosion: This process involves the chemical action of water dissolving minerals in rocks and

soil. The result of corrosion can be the formation of:

Limestone caves: These are formed by the dissolution of limestone rock by acidic water. The

water dissolves the rock, creating underground cavities. As shown in the figure below;

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Figure 6. Limestone caves

Sinkholes: These are depressions that form when the ground collapses into underground cavities

created by the dissolution of rock by acidic water.

Attrition: This process involves sediment carried by the river colliding with other sediment and

becoming smaller and rounder over time. The result of attrition can be the formation of:

Shingle beaches: These are beaches that are composed of rounded pebbles or shingle. The water

rounds the pebbles as they are transported downstream.

Gravel bars: These are accumulations of gravel or sand that form in the river channel. The

sediment is transported downstream and deposited when the river's velocity decreases.

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Figure 7. Gravel bars

What are the key materials and composition of water-erosion landforms/landscapes?

Water-erosion landforms/landscapes are shaped by the movement and interaction of water with

the Earth's surface over long periods of time. The key materials and composition of water-

erosion landforms/landscapes vary depending on the type of rock and soil that the water is

eroding, as well as the type and intensity of the erosion process.

In general, water-erosion landforms/landscapes can be broadly categorized into two types:

erosional and depositional. Erosional landforms are created by the removal of material through

erosion, while depositional landforms are created by the deposition of material transported by the

water. Here are some examples of key materials and compositions for each type of landform:

Erosional Landforms:

Valleys: These are formed by the erosive action of running water on the sides of a mountain or

hill. The key materials include the rock and soil that make up the mountain or hill, which are

eroded by the force of the water.

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Canyons: These are formed when a river cuts through layers of rock and soil over time. The key

materials include the different layers of rock and soil that are eroded by the water, which can

create dramatic and varied landscapes.

Waterfalls: These are created when a river flows over a layer of hard rock followed by a layer of

softer rock. The key materials include the different layers of rock that the water is eroding, which

can create unique and striking formations.

Depositional Landforms:

Deltas: These are created when a river flows into a larger body of water, such as a lake or ocean.

The key materials include sediment that is carried by the river and deposited at the mouth of the

river, which can create large and complex landforms.

Floodplains: These are low-lying areas adjacent to a river that are subject to periodic flooding.

The key materials include sediment that is deposited by the river during floods, which can create

fertile and productive agricultural areas.

Alluvial fans: These are formed when a river or stream flows out of a narrow canyon or valley

and onto a broader plain. The key materials include sediment that is carried by the water and

deposited at the base of the canyon or valley, which can create broad, fan-shaped landforms. the

key materials and composition of water-erosion landforms/landscapes are closely tied to the type

of erosion process that is shaping them, as well as the type of rock and soil that are being eroded.

Over time, water can create dramatic and varied landscapes that are shaped by a complex

interplay of geology, climate, and the movement of water.

Why are water-erosion and its landforms/landscapes important?

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Water-erosion and its landforms/landscapes are important for a variety of reasons, both

ecological and economic. Here are some of the key reasons why water-erosion and its

landforms/landscapes are important:

Habitat and biodiversity: Water-erosion landforms/landscapes create diverse habitats for a

wide range of plants and animals. For example, rivers, streams, and wetlands provide important

habitats for fish, amphibians, and other aquatic species. Floodplains and delta ecosystems are

also important habitats for many species of plants and animals.

Agriculture: Many water-erosion landforms/landscapes, such as floodplains and alluvial fans,

are highly productive areas for agriculture. The deposition of nutrient-rich sediment by rivers and

floods can create fertile soil that supports crops and other agricultural activities.

Water supply: Rivers and streams provide freshwater for human consumption, irrigation, and

industry (Hoover Mackin, 1948). Water-erosion landforms/landscapes, such as aquifers and

springs, can also provide important sources of groundwater for drinking and irrigation.

Recreation and tourism: Water-erosion landforms/landscapes are often popular destinations for

outdoor recreation and tourism. Rivers, canyons, waterfalls, and other water features can provide

opportunities for activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and whitewater rafting.

Geology and Earth history: Water-erosion landforms/landscapes provide important insights

into the geology and history of the Earth. For example, canyons and valleys can reveal the layers

of rock and sediment that have been eroded over time, providing clues about the Earth's past

environments and geological processes.

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In addition to these benefits, water-erosion and its landforms/landscapes are also important for

their cultural and aesthetic value. Many water-erosion features are considered to be natural

wonders and are important cultural and spiritual sites for local communities. Overall, water-

erosion and its landforms/landscapes are essential components of the Earth's ecosystems and

provide a wide range of benefits that are important for both human and environmental health.

References

Hoover Mackin, J. (1948). Concept of the graded river. Geological Society of America

Bulletin, 59(5), 463-512.

McCloskey, G. L., Wasson, R. J., Boggs, G. S., & Douglas, M. (2016). Timing and causes of

gully erosion in the riparian zone of the semi-arid tropical Victoria River, Australia:

Management implications. Geomorphology, 266, 96-104.

Maltsev, K., & Yermolaev, O. (2020). Assessment of soil loss by water erosion in small river

basins in Russia. Catena, 195, 104726.