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Describe and explain how humans attempt to control one of the following surface processes: - River Processes - Coastal Processes - Mass movement. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2009
Question C
Describe and explain how humans attempt to control one of the following surface processes: - River Processes - Coastal Processes - Mass movement.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe and explain how humans attempt to control one of the following surface processes: - River Processes - Coastal Processes - Mass movement. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2009
Step 1
River Processes
Answer
One of the primary methods of controlling river processes is the construction of dams. Dams serve multiple purposes, such as flood control, water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
In terms of flood control, reservoirs created by dams can hold excess water during periods of heavy rainfall, helping to prevent downstream flooding. The mechanisms used in dam design often include spillways, which allow controlled water release. This regulation of flow can significantly reduce the impact of sudden surges due to storms.
Additionally, weir structures can also be employed to manage water levels and flow rates within rivers. They work by creating a barrier that redirects and raises the water level behind it, enabling better management of flow during different seasons.
Step 2
Coastal Processes
Answer
Coastal processes are often managed through the use of sea walls and groynes. Sea walls, constructed along shorelines, act as barriers that protect the land from wave action and erosion. They are typically made of concrete and other sturdy materials to withstand the forces of the ocean.
Groynes are another method utilized to control coastal erosion and sediment deposition. These structures extend from the beach into the water and help interrupt the flow of water, trapping sand and promoting beach nourishment on the updrift side.
Overall, both sea walls and groynes play a crucial role in preserving coastal areas and managing long-term erosion due to storm surges and rising sea levels.
Step 3
Mass movement
Answer
To control mass movements, particularly in hilly or mountainous regions, techniques such as retaining walls and slope stabilization measures are put in place. Retaining walls are constructed to hold back soil or rock from moving down a slope, especially after heavy rainfall or seismic activity.
Another approach involves the application of vegetation. Planting trees and shrubs can help stabilize the soil, as roots bind the soil together and absorb excess water that might contribute to landslides. Additionally, terracing can be employed to reshape the landscape, thus reducing slope steepness and decreasing the likelihood of mass movements.