V-shaped valley formation

• What are four physical features of the river valley?

  • Steep valley sides
  • Narrow, shallow upland stream
  • Interlocking spurs
  • Narrow valley floor
• What is vertical erosion?

  Downward erosion of a riverbed.
• What is the first step in the formation of a v-shaped valley?

  The river eroding vertically into its bed through abrasion and hydraulic action.
• What is the second step in the formation of a v-shaped valley?

  The exposed valley sides are broken down by weathering processes
• What is the third step in the formation of a v-shaped valley?

  Mass movement such as slumps / slides / surface runoff moves the weathered material down the valley sides into the river
• What is the fourth step in the formation of a v-shaped valley?

  The river transports its new load by processes like traction and saltation, which encourages vertical erosion
• What is the fifth step in the formation of a v-shaped valley?

  As the river flows it swings from side to side around resistant rocks which become interlocking spurs
• What are weathering processes?

  Physical and chemical breakdown of rocks at or near the Earth's surface.