Question 1: Describe the main stages of a river's journey from its source to its mouth.

Answer: The stages include the source (where the river begins), the upper course (steep, V-shaped valleys, waterfalls, rapids), the middle course (floodplains, meanders, broader valleys), and the lower course (large estuaries, gentle slopes, deposition dominates).

Question 2: Explain what is meant by the term 'meander' in a river.

Answer: A meander is a bend or curve in a river that forms in the middle and lower courses due to erosion and deposition, creating a winding pattern.

Question 3: Identify and describe three features commonly found in the upper course of a river.

Answer: Features include waterfalls (where river flows over a resistant rock layer), rapids (areas of turbulent flow caused by a steep gradient), and V-shaped valleys (formed by vertical erosion).

Question 4: What processes mainly shape the river's channel in the middle course?

Answer: Erosion (particularly lateral erosion), deposition, and the formation of meanders shape the river's channel in the middle course.

Question 5: Draw a diagram showing the cross-section of a river's lower course. Include labels for the river channel, floodplain, and estuary.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a wide, flat floodplain with the river flowing in the middle, the river channel at the bottom, and an estuary where the river meets the sea. Labels should clearly identify each feature.

Question 6: Explain how the process of deposition occurs in a river and where it is most likely to happen.

Answer: Deposition occurs when a river loses energy and drops its load of sediment. It is most common in the lower course, on the inside of meander bends, and in areas where the river slows down.

Question 7: Describe two ways in which human activity can impact river systems.

Answer: Human activities such as dam construction can alter flow and sediment transport, while urban development increases pollution and surface runoff, leading to flooding and habitat destruction.

Question 8: Sketch a simple diagram of a river in its middle course showing a meander. Include labels for the riverbank, the bend, and the floodplain.

Answer: The diagram should depict a winding river with a pronounced bend, showing the outer bank (erosion), inner bank (deposition), and a broad floodplain surrounding the meander.

Question 9: Identify and explain two ways in which the shape of a river's valley can influence its flow.

Answer: A steep-sided valley increases the gradient, leading to faster flow, while a wide, flat valley slows the river down, reducing erosion and promoting deposition.

Question 10: What is an estuary, and why is it important for river systems?

Answer: An estuary is the wide, tidal mouth of a river where it meets the sea. It is important because it provides a rich habitat for wildlife, acts as a natural filter, and supports shipping and fishing activities.