Using Figure 6 and your own knowledge, assess the view that deposition is the most important factor in the development of this landscape. Figure 6 is a photograph of part of the Mersey Estuary at Runcorn, Cheshire in 2019. Note: Runcorn lies about 25 kilometres from the sea on the south bank of the tidal estuary of the River Mersey where the tidal range can be as high as 9 meters. This particular photograph was taken at low tide looking towards the north bank of the estuary. The River Mersey ends approximately 110 km course in this tidal estuary.

A-Level AQA Geography Coastal Management: Using Figure 6 and your own know

Using Figure 6 and your own knowledge, assess the view that deposition is the most important factor in the development of this landscape - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1

Question 3

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Using Figure 6 and your own knowledge, assess the view that deposition is the most important factor in the development of this landscape. Figure 6 is a photograph o... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using Figure 6 and your own knowledge, assess the view that deposition is the most important factor in the development of this landscape - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1

Step 1

Assess the view that deposition is the most important factor in the development of this landscape.

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Answer

In assessing whether deposition is the most important factor in the development of the Mersey Estuary landscape, it is essential to consider several factors that contribute to this dynamic environment. The Mersey Estuary, shaped significantly by both deposition and erosion, features diverse landforms including mudflats and saltmarshes.

Role of Deposition

Deposition occurs when sediment transported by water settles due to a decrease in energy. In estuarine environments, this often results in the formation of crucial habitats such as mudflats and saltmarshes that play key roles in ecological processes. The tidal range of up to 9 meters in the River Mersey leads to substantial sediment deposition, creating areas where plants can establish, thus promoting biodiversity.

Factors Influencing Deposition

While deposition is vital, it interacts with other processes such as erosion and human activities. Winds, waves, and tides all contribute to the sediment dynamics within the estuary. For instance, destructive waves may erode existing landforms and transport this material elsewhere, influencing overall sediment budgets in the estuary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while deposition is indeed a significant factor in the development of the landscape observed in Figure 6, it should not be viewed in isolation. The interplay between deposition, erosion, tidal forces, and human influence highlights a more complex picture of landscape evolution in the Mersey Estuary.