Chapter 28, Problem 14RQ

To determine

The three ways in which flowing water erodes a stream channel.

Answer to Problem 14RQ

The three ways in which flowing water erodes a stream channel are chemically weather, hydraulic action and abrasion.

Explanation of Solution

Flowing water can erode a stream channel by three ways- chemically weather, hydraulic action and abrasion.

When the flowing water carries many dissolved substances then chemical weathering occurs which can erode the material of the stream channel.

The shear force in flowing water helps in erosion of the stream channel, this action is known as hydraulic action.

The erosion in a stream channel which takes place when wearing of the transported sediment occurs over a course of time is called abrasion. This erosion causes scouring of a channel.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the three ways in which flowing water erodes a stream channel are chemically weather, hydraulic action and abrasion.