Why does a stream bottom erode more deeply when its water level rises in a flood?
A) Since its water velocity remains the same, the increased volume of water can carry more sediment.
B) Its water level rises, so water velocity increases and it can carry more sediment.
C) It doesn't-its stream bottom builds up to match the rise in water level.
D) Its gradient becomes steeper, so it can erode deeper.
E) To accommodate the additional water, its velocity slows, and it digs in deeper.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the water level rises in a flood, the volume of water increases and so does its velocity due to the steepening of the stream's gradient. This increased velocity allows the stream to pick up and transport larger sediment particles, leading to deeper erosion of the stream bottom.

Why Does a Stream Bottom Erode More Deeply When Its