Deposition: GCSE Geography Definition
What is deposition?
In GCSE geography, deposition is generally defined as the process where material, such as sand, silt, or rocks, is dropped or left behind by a river, glacier, waves or wind. When the force carrying the material weakens or loses energy, it can no longer transport the sediment. This leads to deposition.
Deposition is responsible for forming new landforms. In rivers, deposition processes lead to the formation of:
Slip off slopes
Deltas
Levees
Floodplains
At the coast, deposition forms:
Beaches
Sand dunes
In a glacial landscape, deposition forms:
Moraines
Drumlins
An example of the deposition process occurs as a river slows down near its mouth. It drops the sediment it has been carrying, creating a fan-shaped delta. This process helps build up land over time and alters the landscape.
Deposition Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams
Use the Save My Exams coastal landscapes flashcards and exam questions to revise the process of deposition and related processes.
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Written by Bridgette Barrett
Geography Lead20 articlesAfter graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.
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