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Explain with the aid of a labelled diagram(s) the formation of one landform of deposition that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2012
Question B
Explain with the aid of a labelled diagram(s) the formation of one landform of deposition that you have studied. Or Describe and explain one process of mass moveme... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain with the aid of a labelled diagram(s) the formation of one landform of deposition that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2012
Step 1
Explain with the aid of a labelled diagram(s) the formation of one landform of deposition that you have studied.
Answer
To explain the formation of a landform of deposition, we will focus on the delta. A delta is formed at the mouth of a river where it meets a body of still water, such as an ocean or lake.
Formation of a Delta
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Sediment Transport: As a river flows towards the ocean, it carries sediments such as sand, silt, and clay picked up from the riverbed and banks.
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Decrease in Velocity: When the river reaches the mouth, the velocity decreases significantly as it enters the larger body of water, which cannot carry the heavier particles. This decrease in speed leads to sediment deposition.
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Layering of Sediments: Over time, sediments accumulate and create layers. The heavier particles settle first, forming the base of the delta, while lighter particles remain suspended.
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Vegetation Growth: As the delta forms, vegetation may begin to grow, stabilizing the sediments and leading to further deposition.
Diagram
A labelled diagram should depict:
- The river flowing into the ocean.
- Areas of deposition.
- Different sediment layers.
- Vegetation along the delta.
This labelled diagram should illustrate the processes of sedimentation and the formation of landforms at the river's mouth.
Step 2
Describe and explain one process of mass movement that you have studied.
Answer
For this question, we will describe and explain landslides, a common process of mass movement.
Description of Landslides
A landslide is the sudden and fast movement of rock, soil, and debris down a slope. This movement can occur due to several factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or human activities.
Causes of Landslides
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Water Saturation: Prolonged rainfall can saturate the soil, leading to a decrease in friction between particles. This often becomes a primary trigger for landslides.
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Earthquakes: Seismic activity can shake loose unstable earth or rock, initiating a landslide.
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Human Activities: Construction, mining, and deforestation can destabilize slopes, making them more susceptible to landslides.
Effects of Landslides
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Destruction of Property: Landslides can cause significant damage to buildings, roads, and infrastructure.
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Loss of Life: During major landslides, loss of life is a tragic possibility due to the rapid nature of the event.
Prevention Measures
To mitigate the impacts of landslides, various prevention measures can be implemented, such as:
- Building retaining walls
- Proper drainage systems to manage water flow
- Replanting vegetation on slopes to stabilize the soil.
This comprehensive overview of landslides captures the essence of this mass movement process, addressing its causes, effects, and prevention.