A dam and reservoir are constructed on a graded river. What will happen?
A) deposition upstream from the dam; channel downcutting below
B) channel downcutting upstream and downstream from the dam
C) deposition upstream and downstream from the dam
D) channel downcutting upstream from the dam; deposition below

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a dam is constructed on a river, sediment that would normally be transported downstream accumulates in the reservoir upstream of the dam, leading to deposition. Below the dam, the lack of sediment and continued water flow can lead to channel downcutting as the river attempts to reestablish its gradient.

A Dam and Reservoir Are Constructed on a Graded River