The below content replicates the content of the physical exhibit at CSU Spur. It can be used for reference, language translation, and additional accessibility.
WATER SHAPES OUR LAND
Impact Statement: Water flow can determine a riverbed’s shape and size, and scientists study flow and geology to understand how rivers change over time.
Description: The faster water moves, the bigger the particles–like sand and rocks–it can move. We can learn how water shapes riverbeds by observing the speed, volume, and the types of particles the water moves.
We can also learn about erosion and deposition (deposits of particles) by studying bends (or meanders) in rivers. Slow-moving water leaves particles that build up and create new land, while faster flowing water erodes (or wears away) the land. Take a walk to the South Platte River to watch this in action.
Image Caption: Water flows faster on the outside of riverbends creating a steep wall called a cut bank, while slower water flows on the inside creating a sandy point bar.
Image Credit 201a: Note: Included on bottom of image, per Google Earth’s copyright instructions
Image Text:
- South Platte River
- Point Bar
- Cut Bank
Image Caption 201b: Floodplains (areas along rivers where water overflows) provide habitats for riparian (or river) plants and wildlife, safeguard communities from flood damage, and protect the quality of water. / © Marek Uliasz | Dreamstime.com
Image Text:
- River Floodplain
Image Caption 201c: Meandering streams develop snakelike curves as they travel across the land. These bends are a result of erosion and deposition.
Image Text:
PARTS OF A MEANDERING STREAM
- Point Bar
- Meander Scar
- Oxbow Lake
- Cutoff
- Backswamp
- Deposition
- Erosion
- Bluffs
- Natural Levees
- Alluvial Deposits
- Bedrock
