How Does a River Shape the Land Around It?

A river is like a very strong, moving stream of water that keeps going and going. It can move rocks, sand, and soil from one place to another, kind of like how you might move toys around in your room with your hands. Over time, this makes the land change shape.

Take the quiz →

Examples

A river can carry small rocks and make a hole in the ground where it flows, kind of like how you dig a tunnel with your hands.
When a river slows down, it drops its sediment, creating a wide flat area, just like when you leave your toys on the floor after playing.
Rivers can wear away mountains over time, shaping valleys that look like the lines of a drawing.

Ask a question

Discussion

Recent activity

Categories: Environment · geology,hydrology,landform,river processes