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Examine the diagram above and answer each of the following questions - Leaving Cert Geography - Question A - 2017
Question A
Examine the diagram above and answer each of the following questions. (i) Explain briefly two reasons why river rejuvenation occurs. (ii) Explain briefly what is me... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine the diagram above and answer each of the following questions - Leaving Cert Geography - Question A - 2017
Step 1
Explain briefly two reasons why river rejuvenation occurs.
Answer
River rejuvenation occurs for several reasons:
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Tectonic Uplift: When land elevates due to tectonic activity, rivers may need to adjust their gradients, leading to rejuvenation. As the base level rises, the river cuts downwards to regain its erosive power.
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Change in Sea Level: A fall in sea level can create a new base level for a river. This prompts rivers to erode their beds more aggressively to adapt to the new conditions.
Step 2
Explain briefly what is meant by the term knickpoint.
Answer
A knickpoint refers to a point of abrupt change in the gradient of a river, typically occurring where there is a significant change in the geology of the riverbed. It often represents a transition from a steeper section of a river to a more gently sloping area, indicating a relative decrease in the river's energy.
Step 3
Name two features of river rejuvenation not shown in the diagram above.
Answer
Two features of river rejuvenation that are not depicted in the diagram are:
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Terraces: These are step-like landforms created by the former floodplains of a river as it incises deeper into its valley during rejuvenation.
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Incised Meanders: These are meanders that have been cut down into the landscape due to an increase in energy and erosion during the rejuvenation process.
Step 4