Interactive Animation: Stream Terrace Formation
When do streams erode laterally?
when downcutting is occurring in easy-to-erode sediment or rock
What is a stream terrace?
a remnant of an older floodplain that sits above the stream valley
Imagine a valley containing four stream terraces. Where would the youngest stream terrace be found?
the lowest terrace
When do stream terraces form?
when streams exist under alternating erosional and depositional conditions
How many stream terraces can exist along a single valley?
No limit exists. Stream terraces will keep forming as long as lateral erosion and downcutting continue.
Are stream terraces depositional or erosional landforms?
Stream terraces can be either depositional or erosional.