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Examine the role of the processes of deposition on the formation of any one landform that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2016
Question B
Examine the role of the processes of deposition on the formation of any one landform that you have studied. Or Describe and explain the factors governing the opera... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine the role of the processes of deposition on the formation of any one landform that you have studied - 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 effectively examine the role of deposition in landform formation, let's consider the formation of a delta.
Role of Processes of Deposition
Deposition occurs when materials carried by water, ice, or wind settle out of the transporting medium. This process is significant for delta formation, where sediments from rivers accumulate at a river mouth when the current slows down as it enters standing water (e.g., a sea or lake).
- Sediment Accumulation: The slowing of water leads to the deposition of heavier particles first, forming the main lobe of the delta, while finer particles are deposited over a broader area. This layering creates a unique stratified structure in the delta.
- Biodiversity: Deposition contributes to creating rich habitats in delta regions, supporting diverse ecosystems that benefit both aquatic and terrestrial life.
- Landform Development: Over time, continued deposition shapes the delta by expanding it outward into the water body, creating various sub-features like levees, distributaries, and marshy areas.
Diagram Reference
A relevant labeled diagram can illustrate the delta formation process, showing sediment layers, river flow, and areas of deposition.
In summary, processes of deposition are crucial for the formation of deltas, as they create and shape the land by accumulating sediments over time.
Step 2
Describe and explain the factors governing the operation of any one mass movement process that you have studied.
Answer
For this part, let's describe and explain the factors governing landslides.
Factors Governing Landslides
- Gravity: The primary force driving mass movement, gravity increases the potential energy of the materials on a slope, making them unstable.
- Water Content: Increased moisture in soil reduces friction among particles, allowing them to flow more easily. Heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt can trigger landslides.
- Slope Angle: Steeper slopes are more prone to landslides due to the increased gravitational pull on the materials.
- Material Composition: The type of soil or rock affects stability; loose, sandy soils are more susceptible to landslides compared to compact, cohesive materials.
- Vegetation: The roots of plants help stabilize the soil. When deforestation occurs, the risk of landslides increases significantly.
Diagram Reference
A relevant labeled diagram can illustrate the factors involved in a landslide, showing how gravity, water content, and slope interact.
In conclusion, the operation of landslides is governed by multiple factors, with gravity and water content being among the most influential.