Vertical erosion
What Vertical erosion means in Geography GCSE, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Vertical erosion
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Vertical erosion in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Erosion that dominates in the upper course, where the channel is narrow and shallow within a steep V-shaped valley.
Erosion that deepens the channel and dominates in the upper course, creating steep V-shaped valleys.
Dominant process in the upper course, creating steep-sided, narrow V-shaped valleys.
Downward erosion that deepens the river channel.
Topics that use Vertical erosion
- River landscapes in the UK (AQA GCSE)
- Erosion and deposition interacting with geology create distinctive landforms in river landscapes (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Alluvium
- Hydraulic action
- Lateral erosion
- Abrasion
- Attrition
- Channel straightening
- Dams and reservoirs
- Deposition
Using Vertical erosion in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Geography questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge