Geography Junior Cert Exam: Rivers

Key River Terms

• River Source: Where the river begins.
• Watershed: Area where precipitation collects and drains into the river.
• Tributary: Smaller river running into the main river.
• Confluence: Point where a tributary meets the river.
• Estuary: Tidal part of the river.
• River Mouth: Where the river meets the sea.

Stages of a River

1. Youthful Stage
   • Steep slope.
   • Fast-moving water.
   • Forms a V-shaped valley.
2. Mature Stage
   • Gentle slope.
   • Valley with a wide floor and gentle sides.
3. Old Stage
   • Almost flat slope.
   • Slow-moving through flat lowlands.

Processes of Erosion

• Hydraulic Action: Force of water eroding riverbed and banks.
• Abrasion: Load dragged and scraped against the river floor.
• Attrition: River's load collides and breaks into smaller pieces.
• Solution: Chemicals dissolve rock in the riverbed.

River Transport

• Rolling and Dragging: Moving heavy stones and rocks.
• Bouncing: Movement of smaller stones and rocks.
• Suspension: Small stones and pebbles floating in water.
• Solution: Tiny bits of stone dissolved in water.
• Floatation: Leaves and sticks floated on water surface.

Features of a River

Youthful Stage Features

• Interlocking Spurs: Stream flows around hills it cannot erode.
• V-Shaped Valley: Formed by vertical erosion and weathering.
• Waterfall: Formed when river flows over hard and soft rocks, creating a plunge pool.
  • Examples: Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls, Angel Falls.

Mature Stage Features

• Meanders: Bends or curves in a river where erosion and deposition occur.

Old Stage Features

• Oxbow Lakes: Horseshoe-shaped lakes formed by cut-off meanders.
• Levees: Ridges of alluvium formed by repeated flooding.

Human Interaction with Rivers

• Dam Building: Example of the hydroelectric power plant on the River Shannon, Ireland.
  • Benefits: Generate electricity.
  • Disadvantages: Flooding of farmland.

Ensure to review these notes to prepare for the Junior Cert Geography Exam on rivers. For further clarification or questions, engage in discussions or seek additional resources.