Which of the following is correct of the longitudinal profile of most rivers?
A) It always changes at a constant rate from the headwater region to the sea.
B) It is convex in shape.
C) It is concave in shape.
D) It is gentle upstream and steep downstream.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The longitudinal profile of most rivers is concave in shape, meaning that it is steep upstream and gentle downstream. This is because erosion and transportation processes are more efficient in the upper reaches of the river, resulting in steep slopes and narrow valleys. As the river approaches the sea, the sediment load increases and the gradient becomes gentler, resulting in wider valleys and flatter slopes. While the longitudinal profile may change over time due to erosion and deposition, it is not always at a constant rate and is not typically convex in shape.

Which of the Following Is Correct of the Longitudinal Profile