Explain the formation of a flood plain.

Flood plains form when the discharge of the river channel exceeds it's capacity. As the river transports sediment via traction, suspension, saltation and solution the sediment is held within the river channel however, when the river discharge is higher than the capacity of the channel, the river bursts its banks and so the water and the sediment spill onto the surrounding flat land. This material is then deposited on this flat land and builds up over many years/flood events thus forming a flood plain.

Answered by Joseph G. Geography tutor

17182 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Assess the ways in which development can be measured.


Using a case study, explain the cause and effects of flooding.


Why are there different impacts of flooding in MEDCs and LEDCs?


Explain what is meant by the term ‘global village’ and give a few examples to highlight this.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences