Author Question: Explain how a stream that is initially nearly straight can eventually produce an oxbow ... (Read 63 times)

cool

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 570
Explain how a stream that is initially nearly straight can eventually produce an oxbow lake.

Question 2

Describe some of the ways a stream changes between its source and its mouth.



Qarqy

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 313
Answer to Question 1

Slight meanders in the stream become exaggerated over time as erosion occurs at the outside cut bank and deposition occurs at the inside point bar. Flood waters may bypass particularly long meanders, taking a shortcut and cutting a new channel that leaves much of the meander isolated, becoming an oxbow lake.

Answer to Question 2

The gradient of an idealized stream decreases from its source to its mouth. In its headwaters, the stream erodes steep-sided valleys and may flow over bedrock. In its middle course, the stream builds a floodplain by eroding laterally rather than downward. As it reaches the lower course, the floodplain grows even wider, and features like oxbow lakes may be common. Finally, where the river meets standing water, it builds a delta as the stream loses its remaining energy and the fine-grained sediment that enabled it to carry.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question


 

Did you know?

The heart is located in the center of the chest, with part of it tipped slightly so that it taps against the left side of the chest.

Did you know?

There are major differences in the metabolism of morphine and the illegal drug heroin. Morphine mostly produces its CNS effects through m-receptors, and at k- and d-receptors. Heroin has a slight affinity for opiate receptors. Most of its actions are due to metabolism to active metabolites (6-acetylmorphine, morphine, and morphine-6-glucuronide).

Did you know?

As many as 20% of Americans have been infected by the fungus known as Histoplasmosis. While most people are asymptomatic or only have slight symptoms, infection can progress to a rapid and potentially fatal superinfection.

Did you know?

According to research, pregnant women tend to eat more if carrying a baby boy. Male fetuses may secrete a chemical that stimulates their mothers to step up her energy intake.

Did you know?

The first monoclonal antibodies were made exclusively from mouse cells. Some are now fully human, which means they are likely to be safer and may be more effective than older monoclonal antibodies.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library