What does a profile of a river from its headwaters to its mouth typically show?
A)an increase in gradient downstream
B)a straight-line profile reflecting a constant decrease in gradient
C)an abrupt increase followed by a gradual decrease
D)a curved shape that flattens out downstream
E)None of these.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A typical river profile from its headwaters to its mouth will show a curved shape that flattens out downstream. This is because the river's gradient tends to decrease as it approaches its mouth, and erosion and deposition processes create a more meandering pattern. While some sections of the river may have steeper gradients, overall the profile will show a decrease in gradient from headwaters to mouth. The other options (A, B, C, and E) do not accurately reflect the typical profile of a river.

What Does a Profile of a River from Its Headwaters