Describe and explain how one fluvial landform is formed with reference to an example.

A waterfall is an erosional fluvial landform, characterisedby a steep drop in the river. It is formed in the upper course when verticalerosion forms a V-shaped valley. For instance, High Force is the UK’s largestwaterfall – 21 metres high – located on the River Tees in NE England. An areaof hard impermeable igneous rock called Whinstone is located above a layer ofsofter rocks, such as limestone and sandstone. The softer rock is eroded by acombination of hydraulic action and abrasion, undercutting the harder rock.This leaves an overhang of unsupported rock, under which a plunge pool is formed.Over a period of thousands of years, the waterfall gradually retreats up streamas the force of gravity pulls down the overhang causing it to collapse and forminga steep-sided gorge.

LJ
Answered by Laura J. Geography tutor

2271 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

To what extent does rapid urban migration pose challenges to urban areas? Answer using one case study (6 marks)


What is globalisation and how does it affect us?


Explain the formation of a spit. (6 marks)


What are the characteristics of oceanic crust?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning