Questions and Answers
Where do waterfalls typically form in a river?
In the upper stages of a river.
What causes the formation of a plunge pool at a waterfall?
Erosion of soft rock by falling water and rock particles.
The soft rock is undercut by erosional processes such as hydraulic action and _____ creating a plunge pool.
abrasion
The hard rock overhang above the plunge pool remains intact forever.
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What happens to the waterfall as erosion continues?
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Study Notes
Formation of a Waterfall
- Waterfalls form primarily in the upper stages of a river where hard rock overlays softer rock.
- Erosion from falling water and rock particles removes the softer rock beneath, resulting in a plunge pool.
- Processes involved in undercutting the soft rock include hydraulic action and abrasion, contributing to the deeper plunge pool and the creation of an overhang.
- As erosion progresses, the hard rock overhang becomes unsupported and collapses due to its own weight.
- The ongoing erosion causes the waterfall to retreat upstream, leading to the formation of a gorge.
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Description
Explore the fascinating process of waterfall formation. Learn how the interaction between hard and soft rock layers leads to the development of plunge pools through erosional processes such as hydraulic action and abrasion. Understand the geological features and dynamics that create these stunning natural phenomena.
