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Examine the impact of the processes of erosion on the formation of one fluvial, coastal or glacial landform that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2015
Question B
Examine the impact of the processes of erosion on the formation of one fluvial, coastal or glacial landform that you have studied. or Describe and explain the fact... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine the impact of the processes of erosion on the formation of one fluvial, coastal or glacial landform that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2015
Step 1
Examine the impact of the processes of erosion on the formation of one fluvial, coastal or glacial landform that you have studied.
Answer
To examine the impact of erosion processes on a landform, we will consider the example of the 'V-shaped valley' formed by fluvial processes.
1. Overview of Erosion Processes
Erosion can occur via several mechanisms including hydraulic action, abrasion, and attrition. In the context of a V-shaped valley, these processes work together to shape the landscape.
2. Hydraulic Action
Hydraulic action refers to the force of moving water hitting the riverbed and banks, creating pressure that can dislodge particles. This action deepens the valley over time, contributing to the V-shape.
3. Abrasion
Abrasion occurs when the load carried by the river, such as stones and sediment, scrapes against the banks and bed, further eroding the rock and soil. This mechanisms enhances the steepness of the valley sides.
4. Formation of the Landform
Over thousands of years, the continuous effect of hydraulic action and abrasion leads to the characteristic V-shape of the valley. As the river cuts downwards, the valley widens at the top, maintaining a steep profile that is typical of fluvial environments.
5. Impact on Surrounding Areas
The erosion process can also affect adjacent areas by causing mass wasting, where loose materials collapse due to gravity, further shaping the landscape.
6. Conclusion
In conclusion, the processes of erosion fundamentally shape the formation of fluvial landforms like V-shaped valleys, demonstrating the powerful effect of water in geological processes.
Step 2
Describe and explain the factors governing the operation of one mass movement process that you have studied.
Answer
For this section, we will describe the mass movement process known as 'landslide'.
1. Overview of Landslides
A landslide can be defined as the movement of rock, earth, or debris down a slope due to the force of gravity. Several key factors contribute to the occurrence of landslides:
2. Factors Governing Landslides
- Gravity: The primary driving force that pulls material down the slope.
- Slope Angle: Steeper slopes are more prone to landslides.
- Water Content: Increased water from rain or melting snow can reduce soil cohesion, making landslides more likely.
- Vegetation: The roots of plants can stabilize slopes, whereas removal of vegetation (such as deforestation) increases landslide risk.
- Geology: The type of soil and rock also influences landslide susceptibility; loose, unconsolidated materials are more prone to movement.
3. Example of Landslide Operation
In a hillslope covered with loose soil, heavy rainfall can lead to saturation. This increased water content reduces friction among soil particles, leading to a potential landslide when the force of gravity exceeds the resistance provided by the soil.
4. Conclusion
In summary, factors such as gravity, slope angle, and water content play crucial roles in the operation of landslides, demonstrating the complex interactions between natural forces and geological formations.