Erosion Dictionary

  

Lateral erosion:

Sideways erosion, for example in a river channel at the outside bend of a meander.

Vertical erosion:

Downwards erosion, for example when a river gouges out a deep valley. 

Deposition:

The dumping of sediment that has been transported by a river. This occurs when a river loses energy.

Abrasion:

Large loads carried by the river hit the bed and banks causing bits to break off. This wears down the river bed and banks. 

Attrition:

Stones and boulders carried by the river knock together making them gradually smaller and smoother. 

Solution:

Rocks and minerals in the river are dissolved by rainwater. 

Hydraulic action:

The power of the volume of water against the banks can cause air to be trapped in cracks and crevices. The pressure weakens the banks and wears it away. 

Suspension:

Fine, light material is carried along by the river. It floats within the water and is moved as it flows. 

Traction:

Large boulders and rocks are rolled along as they are too heavy to lose contact with the river bed. 

Saltation:

Small pebbles and stones are bounced along the river bed. This lighter load leaves the river bed in a hopping motion.