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Landform Development Answer (i) or (ii) - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2016
Question B
Landform Development Answer (i) or (ii). (i) Examine the role of the processes of deposition on the formation of any one landform that you have studied. Or (ii) ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Landform Development Answer (i) or (ii) - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2016
Step 1
Examine the role of the processes of deposition on the formation of any one landform that you have studied.
Answer
To explore the role of deposition in landform creation, let's consider the formation of a delta.
Process of Deposition
Deposition occurs when sediment carried by wind, water, or ice is dropped as energy decreases. In the case of a delta, sediment is deposited where a river meets a body of water, slowing down dramatically.
Role in Delta Formation
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Sediment Load: Rivers transport various sediments, from fine silt to larger stones. When the river enters standing water (like an ocean or lake), its velocity decreases.
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Layering of Sediments: As the river slows, it loses its ability to carry sediment, leading to layering. Over time, these layers build up, creating the delta's structure.
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Expansion: Continuous deposition forms the delta outward into the water body, widening the land area and forming unique ecosystems.
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Erosion Factors: While deposition builds the delta, processes such as erosion can shape its outline, illustrating the balance between these geological processes.
Diagram
A labelled diagram should be included to visualize the delta formation, indicating the river path, sediment layers, and emerging delta shape.
Step 2
Describe and explain the factors governing the operation of any one mass movement process that you have studied.
Answer
For this part, we will examine the mass movement process known as landslides.
Factors Governing Landslides
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Gravity: The primary force driving mass movement. When the slope's resistance is overcome, materials slide downward.
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Water Content: Increased moisture in soil reduces friction, making landslides more likely. Saturation from heavy rains can destabilize slopes.
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Slope Angle: The steepness of a slope significantly affects landslide likelihood. Steeper slopes tend to experience more mass movement.
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Geology: The type of rock and soil influences stability. Loose, unconsolidated materials are prone to movement, while solid bedrock offers more resistance.
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Vegetation: Plant roots can stabilize soil. The removal of vegetation, through logging or fire, can increase the risk of landslides.
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Human Activity: Construction and land alteration can destabilize slopes, leading to increased occurrences of landslides.
Example
An example could include the landslide in a mountain region after heavy rainfall following deforestation, showcasing the interplay between natural and human factors.