GCSE Revision - Rivers - The Upper Course

In the upper course, the river is high above seal level. This gives the river a lot of potential energy. The river is trying to cut down to its base level or downwards so it mainly does this through vertical erosion. This creates the classic feature known as a V-shaped valley - seen below.

The main characteristics of a
V - shaped valley and its river:

  • The valley is narrow with a narrow, shallow river channel

  • The valleys have steep sides

  • The channel has a steep gradient with features such as pot holes, rapids and waterfalls

  • The water is mainly slow flowing as most of the rivers energy is used to overcome the friction of the river bed & obstructions

  • The load is mainly large, angular and rough

  • Click on the image for an animation

The Formation of a Waterfall

  • Water passes over hard rock and erodes the softer rock below

  • A plunge pool is formed and the river erodes backward as the water and rock swirl around

  • Eventually the hard cap rock overhangs and collapses under gravity

  • This process continues over time and the waterfall moves backwards or recedes to form a gorge

  • Click on the image for an excellent animation of the process

Links - Revision DVD - River Tees

Common Questions

  • Draw a sketch of the valley in the upper course and label it

  • What are the main features of a river valley in the upper course

  • Describe and explain how a waterfall is formed

  • Draw a cross section of a waterfall and label it

  • Using a diagram explain how a gorge is formed