Diagnostic Misconceptions - Upper Course
Geography: Cambridge International GCSE (2027 Exams), topic 1.7.4
Speed of Water at Different Stages of Rivers
Upper course
- It is a common mistake to believe that rivers flow faster in the upper course as the velocity of the water is more visible in small streams.
Lower course
- In the lower course, rivers flow at higher velocity than the upper course as they have built up energy and there is less friction acting on the water.
Test yourself on Diagnostic Misconceptions - Upper Course
Where is the flow of a river fastest?
Why is the flow of a river fastest in the lower course?
Where is the flow of a river slowest?
True or false?
Rivers flow slower in the upper course because they are flowing at a steeper gradient.