Siyabusa Secondary

School

GEOMORPHOLOGY

REVISION 2020

GRADE 12

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ACTIVITY 1 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2019)

2.2 Give ONE term for each of the following descriptions by choosing a term from
the list below. Write only the term next to the question numbers (2.2.1 to 2.2.7) in
the ANSWER BOOK, e.g. 2.2.8 turbulent flow.

water table; confluence; river mouth; drainage basin;

river source; interfluve; surface run-off; ground water

2.2.1 Point where the river enters the sea

2.2.2 Water that has infiltrated the soil

2.2.3 Area drained by a main river and its tributaries

2.2.4 Point where a river originates

2.2.5 The upper level of the saturated zone

2.2.6 Water flowing overland after it has rained

2.2.7 Point where a tributary meets the main river (7 x 1) (7)

ACTIVITY 2 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2018)

2.2 Choose a term from COLUMN B that matches the fluvial landform description in
COLUMN A. Write only the letter (A–H) next to the question numbers (2.2.1 to
2.2.7) in the ANSWER BOOK, e.g. 2.2.8 I.

COLUMN A COLUMN B
2.2.1 Flat, natural feature next to a river A rapid
2.2.2 An embankment along the river where coarse material is B Delta
deposited first
C Meander
2.2.3 Curves or bends found along the course of a river D braided stream
2.2.4 When a meander loop becomes separated from the river E floodplain

2.2.5 Streams with multiple channels and islands of sediment F oxbow lake
between the channels
2.2.6 A vertical drop in the course of a river as a result of softer G levee
rock eroding faster than hard rock
2.2.7 A depositional landform that occurs when a river flows into H waterfall
the ocean

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ACTIVITY 3 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 1.5: DRAINAGE DENSITY

[Adapted from Google Images]

1.5 FIGURE 1.5 shows a river system with a low drainage density.

1.5.1 Give evidence to suggest that the river system has a low drainage
density. (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.2 Describe TWO factors that may have resulted in a low drainage
density. (2 x 2) (4)

1.5.3 How will an increased drainage density impact on the existing stream
order at A? (1 x 2) (2)

1.5.4 Write a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines discussing how

human activities along the river's course could increase the drainage
density of the drainage basin. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 4 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 1.2: AN EXAMPLE OF A DRAINAGE BASIN

[Source: Focus on Geography – Grade12 p94 J. Earl et al]

1.2 Refer to FIGURE 1.2, showing a drainage basin. Choose the term/word between
brackets to make the statement geographically correct. Write ONLY the term/word
of your choice next to the question number (1.2.1–1.2.8) in the ANSWER BOOK,
for example 1.2.9 Geomorphology.

1.2.1 The river at A generally flows in an/a (easterly/westerly) direction.

1.2.2 The area at B, that represents the highest level of the ground water, is
known as the (saturated level/water table).

1.2.3 The process at C is called (evapotranspiration/evaporation).

1.2.4 (Laminar/Turbulent) flow dominates at D.

1.2.5 The area at E, where the tributary joins the mainstream, is known as the
(confluence/source).

1.2.6 The type of overland flow, taking the form of thin, continuous layers at F, is
called (channel/sheet) flow.

1.2.7 The process at G, where water seeps into the soil, is known as
(ground water/infiltration).

1.2.8 The high lying area H, which separates tributaries of the same drainage
basin, is called a/an (watershed/interfluve). (8 x 1) (8)

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ACTIVITY 5 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 2.6: FLUVIAL LANDFORMS

[Adapted from [Link]

2.6 Study FIGURE 2.6 based on fluvial landforms in the lower course of the river.

2.6.1 Name fluvial feature A. (1 x 1) (1)

2.6.2 Give a reason for the formation of feature A. (1 x 2) (2)

2.6.3 Explain why the undercut slope at B is steep. (1 x 2) (2)

2.6.4 Feature C is a natural levee. Why is this fluvial landform commonly

found in the lower course of the river? (1 x 2) (2)

2.6.5 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, explain the positive

and negative impact of levees on farming on the floodplain. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 6 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 1.5: FLUVIAL LANDFORM

[Source: [Link]

1.5 Refer to FIGURE 1.5 which shows a fluvial landform (oxbow lake).

1.5.1 Name the plain on which this landform developed. (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.2 In which course of the river will this fluvial landform develop? (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.3 Identify the feature at X. (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.4 Draw a simplified cross profile from P to Q to show the area where the
highest velocity (speed) occurs. (2 x 1) (2)

1.5.5 Refer to the oxbow lake.

(a) Provide TWO visible characteristics on the sketch of an oxbow
lake. (2 x 1) (2)

(b) In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, explain how the

oxbow lake become cut off from the mainstream and how water
supply can be maintained in this oxbow lake. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 7 (KZN/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.2: RIVER MEANDER

1.2 Refer to FIGURE 1.2 showing a river meander. Match the slopes A and B in the
sketch with the descriptions given below. Write only the letter A or B next to the
question numbers (1.2.1 – 1.2.7) in your ANSWER BOOK. e.g. 1.2.8 B

1.2.1 The outer bend of the river

1.2.2 Erosion is the main process

1.2.3 The slope is convex in shape

1.2.4 Known as the slip-off slope

1.2.5 Water flows faster at this point

1.2.6 The slope has a gentle gradient

1.2.7 Deposition is the main process 7 x 1 (7)

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ACTIVITY 8 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 1.6: RIVER CAPTURE

1.6 FIGURE 1.6 shows the process of river capture over time.

1.6.1 Name the type of erosion that occurs over time, at X. (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 In which direction is the erosion process (answer to QUESTION

1.6.1) moving? (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.3 Identify ONE factor, visible on the sketch, that made river capture
possible. (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.4 Evaluate how river capture has influenced the drainage densities of
the drainage basins in the west and east. (1 x 2) (2)

1.6.5 Refer to the enlarged area at the point of capture.

(a) Name features Y and Z. (2 x 1) (2)

(b) Provide TWO characteristics of the feature at Y. (2 x 2) (4)

(c) Evaluate the positive economic value of feature Z. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 9 (MP/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 2.5: RIVER CAPTURE

[Source: [Link]]

2.5 FIGURE 2.5 illustrates a river capture.

2.5.1 Define river capture? (1 x 1) (1)

2.5.2 a) Which river in FIGURE 2.5 is the captor? (1 x 1) (1)

b) Justify your answer in QUESTION 2.5.2(a). (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.3 Explain the occurrence of river gravels indicated in FIGURE 2.5

(2 x 2) (4)

2.5.4 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines explain the impact of

river capture on both rivers labelled C and D. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 10 (KZN/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.6: RIVER CAPTURE

Before Capture After Capture

[Source: Adapted from Earths Surface]

1.6 Refer to FIGURE 1.6 showing river capture.

1.6.1 Which river, A or B, is the captor river? (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 Give a reason for your answer in QUESTION 1.6.1. (1 x 2) (2)

1.6.3 Explain TWO possible reasons for river capture taking place in
FIGURE 1.6. (2 x 2) (4

1.6.4 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, describe how the

changes in the river discharge of rivers C and D would affect
the erosional and depositional capacity of each of the two
rivers. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 11 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.2: SLIP-OFF AND UNDERCUT SLOPES

1.2 FIGURE 1.2 shows slip-off and under-cut slopes. Match each of the descriptions below
with one of the slopes.
1.2.1 The water flows more rapidly

1.2.2 The shape of this slope is convex

1.2.3 This slope is characterised by more erosion

1.2.4 A river cliff is likely to form on this slope

1.2.5 This slope is also referred to as the inner bank

1.2.6 The shape of this slope is concave

1.2.7 More deposition occurs on this slope (7 x 1) (7)

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ACTIVITY 12 (EC/JUNE 2018)

FIGURE 1.2: DRAINAGE PATTERNS

[Source: [Link]/images]

1.2 Refer to FIGURE 1.2 on different drainage patterns and match EACH of the
descriptions below with ONE of the drainage patterns. You may choose the
same drainage pattern more than once.

1.2.1 Forms in areas that are geologically young

1.2.2 Mainstream often flows through gaps

1.2.3 The central point could be a lake or pan

1.2.4 It forms in areas where domes and volcanoes occur

1.2.5 Found in fold mountain regions and areas of inclined strata

1.2.6 Associated with horizontal sedimentary and massive igneous

rocks

1.2.7 It occurs in areas of major faults 7 x1 (7)

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ACTIVITY 13 (DBE/May/June 2019)

FIGURE 1.5: DRAINAGE PATTERNS

[Source: Examiner's own sketch]

1.5 Drainage patterns are indicated in FIGURE 1.5.

1.5.1 What is a drainage pattern? (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.2 Describe the dendritic drainage pattern. (1 x 2) (2)

1.5.3 State ONE visible difference between the tributaries of a dendritic

and a trellis drainage pattern. (2 x 2) (4)

1.5.4 Give the underlying rock structure of a dendritic and a trellis

drainage pattern. (2 x 2) (4)

1.5.5 Explain why a dendritic drainage pattern is more suitable for

farming. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 14 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.5: DRAINAGE PATTERNS

[Source: [Link]]

1.5 Study FIGURE 1.5 which shows two types of drainage patterns.

1.5.1 What is a drainage pattern? (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.2 Name drainage patterns A and B. (2 x 1) (2)

1.5.3 Differentiate between drainage patterns A and B. (1 x 2) (2)

1.5.4 Account for the short tributaries in drainage pattern B. (1 x 2) (2)

1.5.5 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, explain the role that

underlying igneous rocks play in the formation of different drainage
patterns. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 15 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 2.5: CROSS AND LONGITUDINAL PROFILES OF RIVERS

[Source: [Link]/sa [Link] [Link]]

2.5 Refer to FIGURE 2.5, showing the longitudinal and cross profiles of rivers and
graphs indicating width, depth, velocity and gradient discharge during the different
stages of a river.

2.5.1 Define the term longitudinal profile of a river. (1 x 1) (1)

2.5.2 Name any TWO fluvial landforms that form in the upper course of the
river. (2 x 1) (2)

2.5.3 Explain why this river will be regarded as overgraded. (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.4 Refer to the different graphs.

(a) Differentiate between the depths of the river in the upper and
lower courses. (1 x 2) (2)

(b) Comment on the difference in width between the upper course

and middle course. (2 x 2) (4)

(c) Explain why the velocity (speed) in the lower course is higher
than the velocity in the upper course in relation to their
respective gradients. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 16 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 1.6: CHANGING CROSS-PROFILE OF THE VALLEY ALONG A RIVER'S

COURSE

[Adapted from [Link]

1.6 FIGURE 1.6 shows the changing cross-profile of the valley along the river's
course.
1.6.1 In which course is the source of the river? (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 Name TWO elements of the cross-profile that changed from the
upper to the lower course in FIGURE 1.6. (2 x 1) (2)

1.6.3 Differentiate between the fluvial processes that shaped the cross-
profiles of the upper course and lower course of the river. (2 x 2) (4)

1.6.4 Describe the reasons for the change in the shape of the cross-profile
of the middle course. (2 x 2) (4)

1.6.5 Explain why the shape of the cross-profile in the upper course of the
river will make it the most suitable place to build a dam. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 17 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 2.5: RIVER PROFILES

[Source: Examiner's own sketches]

2.5 Refer to FIGURE 2.5 showing river profiles.

2.5.1 Define the term longitudinal profile. (1 x 1) (1)

2.5.2 Describe the shape of longitudinal profile A. (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.3 Identify an ultimate (permanent) and temporary base level of erosion

in the diagram. (2 x 1) (2)

2.5.4 How will the deposition of sediments influence the capacity of the
dam? (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.5 Describe the difference in grade between the new longitudinal profile
and the original longitudinal profile. (2 x 2) (4)

2.5.6 Explain the impact of the presence of the dam on erosion and
deposition processes. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 18 (EC/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.6: DRAINAGE BASIN

[Source: [Link]]

1.6 FIGURE 1.6 shows a profile of a drainage basin.

1.6.1 Define the term cross (transverse) profile. (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 Name the type of discharge in the upper course of the drainage
basin. (1 x 1) (1)
1.6.3 Suggest ONE possible reason to support your answer to
QUESTION 1.6.2. (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.1 Define the term cross (transverse) profile. (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.4 Refer to the middle course of the river.

(a) Draw cross (transverse) profiles of the valley in the middle and lower
course of the river. (2 x 2) (4)

(b) With reference to the cross profiles, (answer to QUESTION 1.6.4 (a)
discuss the difference between the shape of the valley in the middle
and lower courses. (2 x 2) (4)

1.6.5 Discuss the role that fluvial processes play in the development of
deltas in the lower course of the river. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 19 (FS/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 2.5: DRAINAGE DENSITY

A B

[Source: Examiner's own sketch]

2.5 Refer to FIGURE 2.5 based on drainage density.

2.5.1 Define the term drainage density. (1 x 1) (1)

2.5.2 Compare the drainage density between A and B. - (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.3 Describe the resistance of the underlying rock structure at B. (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.4 Discuss how slope gradient and rainfall influence drainage

density. (2 x 2) (4)

2.5.5 Account for an increase in drainage density as the vegetation

is cleared for urban development. ( 3 x 2) (6)

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ACTIVITY 20 (FS/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.6: FLUVIAL LANDFORMS

1.6 Study FIGURE 1.6 showing fluvial landforms.

1.6.1 In which stage (course) of a river are the fluvial landforms

shown in FIGURE 1.6 likely to develop? (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 Differentiate between the characteristics of a levee and a

floodplain. (2 x 2) (4)

1.6.3 Describe the formation of a floodplain. (1 x 2) (2)

1.6.4 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, evaluate the

importance of floodplains for agriculture. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 21 (Limp/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.5: RIVER GRADING AND REJUVENATION

1.5 Study FIGURE 1.5 showing river grading and rejuvenation.

1.5.1 Define the term river rejuvenation. (1 x 1) (1)

1.5.2 State TWO points of evidence suggesting that river rejuvenation

has occurred. (2 x 1) (2)

1.5.3 Draw a long profile of the river in FIGURE 1.5 and label the profile. (4 x 1) (4)

1.5.4 Provide TWO possible reasons why rejuvenation has occurred in

this landscape. (2 x 2) (4)

1.5.5 Describe the importance of floodplains to humans. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 22 (DBE/May/ June 2019)

FIGURE 1.6: RIVER REJUVENATION

[Adapted from [Link]

1.6 FIGURE 1.6 shows river rejuvenation.

1.6.1 What type of erosion is associated with river rejuvenation? (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 What evidence indicates that river rejuvenation has taken place?
(1 x 1) (1)

1.6.3 Identify the force of upliftment associated with rejuvenation. (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.4 Why is rejuvenated land not suitable for human activity? (2 x 2) (4)

1.6.5 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, explain how

rejuvenation could change the fluvial features downstream of the
point of rejuvenation. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 23 (EC/JUNE 2016)

FIGURE 2.5: DRAINAGE PATTERNS

2.5 Study the sketches in FIGURE 2.5 showing drainage patterns and answer the
questions that follow.

2.5.1 Identify the drainage patterns illustrated in sketches A and B. (2 x 1) (2)

2.5.2 Identify the landform that developed at C where the river cuts
through the ridge. (1 x 1) (1)
2.5.3 Discuss how the landform identified in QUESTION 2.5.2 can
be of use to humans. (2 x 2) (4)

2.5.4 Explain why the drainage pattern at B is older than the folded
mountains illustrated on the sketch. (1 x 2) (2)

2.5.5 Why is it possible for both rivers in these drainage patterns to

maintain their course? (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 24 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 1.6: CATCHMENT AND RIVER MANAGEMENT

[Source: [Link]

1.6 Refer to FIGURE 1.6 showing catchment and river management.

1.6.1 What is the main source of waste water? (1 x 1) (1)

1.6.2 Discuss how the removal of the natural vegetation for human
activities increased the eroded soil and sediments in the river. (1 x 2) (2)

1.6.3 Explain how run-off from both settlements and cultivated land
decreases the quality of water of a river. (2 x 2) (4)

1.6.4 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, discuss why

sustainable river management is important for all sectors of the
economy. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 25 (DBE/NOVEMBER 2018)

FIGURE 2.6: DEFORESTATION AND ITS IMPACT ON RIVER MANAGEMENT

GOING, GOING, GONE!

The current rate of deforestation worldwide is of great concern. Currently 12 million

hectares of forests are cleared annually – an area 1,3 times the size of KwaZulu-Natal!
Almost all of the deforestation occurs in the moist forests and open woodlands of the
tropics. At this rate all moist tropical forests could be lost by the year 2050, except for
isolated areas in Amazonia, the Zaire basin, as well as a few protected areas within
reserves and parks. Some countries, such as Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Costa Rica and Sri
Lanka are likely to lose all their tropical forests by the year 2030 if no conservation steps
are taken.

DID YOU KNOW?

 The World Resources Institute regards deforestation as one of the world's most
pressing land-use problems.
 An area of forest equal to 20 football or rugby fields is lost every minute.
 South Africa's climate is such that less than 0,5% of its surface area is covered
with indigenous forest – great care should be taken to conserve the few forests
we have.

[Adapted from [Link]

2.6 Refer to FIGURE 2.6, an extract based on the impact of deforestation on river
management.

2.6.1 What is deforestation? (1 x 1) (1)

2.6.2 (a) By which year is it expected that almost all tropical forests will
be lost? (1 x 1) (1)

(b) The size of which province can be compared to the total area
of forests being lost annually? (1 x 1) (1)

2.6.3 Name TWO negative consequences of deforestation on river

systems. (2 x 2) (4)

2.6.4 Suggest TWO measures that can be put in place by the government
and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to manage river
systems at risk due to deforestation. (2 x 2) (4)

2.6.5 Discuss the negative impact of poor river management practices on

South Africaꞌs future water supply. (2 x 2) (4)

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ACTIVITY 26 (FS/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 2.6: RIVER POLLUTION

Vaal Triangle 'Drowning in Sewage',

Posing a threat to Gauteng's drinking water

July 31, 2018

The situation at the Vaal River – which provides a major source of water for
Gauteng, has reached crisis levels as raw sewage, acid mine drainage, abattoirs
discharging blood and corpses and over population, continue to pose a threat on the
health of the Vaal River.

Without immediate improvement, 65% of Gauteng's industry could be without potable

water, and 45% of the population without drinkable water.
[Source: Jennie Baxter]

2.6 Refer to FIGURE 2.6, an article about river pollution.

2.6.1 Name ONE other province that depends on Vaal River for water. (1 x 1) (1)

2.6.2 Account for the high level of pollution in the Vaal River. (2 x 1) (2)

2.6.3 Which sectors will be affected the most if immediate improvement is

not implemented to rescue the Vaal River? (2 x 1) (2)
2.6.4 Describe the consequences of river pollution on the community
depending on the Vaal River (1 x 2) (2)

2.6.5 Suggest in a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines sustainable

strategies that the government could implement to solve the
problem of water pollution in South African rivers. (4 x 2) (8)

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ACTIVITY 27 (KZN/SEPTEMBER 2019)

FIGURE 2.6: RIVER MANAGEMENT

[Source: Adapted from [Link]

2.6 Refer to FIGURE 2.6, on river management.

2.6.1 Define the term river management. (1 x 1) (1)

2.6.2 Provide TWO pieces of evidence from the photograph showing (2 x 1) (2)

2.6.3 Recommend TWO ways in which the local municipality can

reduce the impact of the problems mentioned in QUESTION
2.6.2 caused by settlements located close to rivers. (2 x 2) (4)

2.6.4 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, explain why it is

crucial (very important) to maintain the health (quality of water)
of rivers in South Africa. (4 x 2) (8)

_________________________________ m.j. 2020_____________________________

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