A meandering stream is one that is
A) completely stable.
B) completely unstable.
C) delicately balanced between equilibrium and chaos.
D) closed in terms of energy and matter input.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A meandering stream is not completely stable or completely unstable, as it undergoes both erosion and deposition processes. Instead, it exists in a delicate balance between the two, where slight changes in variables such as water flow, sediment load, or channel slope can tip it towards either equilibrium or chaos. Therefore, option C is the best choice. Option D is not applicable to a stream system as it is an open system that constantly receives energy and matter inputs from its surroundings.

A Meandering Stream Is One That Is