About Oxbow lakes, consider the following statements: 1. It is formed...
Introduction:
Oxbow lakes are a common feature found in the upper courses of rivers. They are formed when a meandering river creates a loop or bend that eventually gets cut off from the mainstream due to erosion and deposition processes. Oxbow lakes are also known as bayous or cut-offs in the USA.
Explanation:
Let's analyze each statement given in the question to determine their correctness:
Statement 1: Oxbow lakes are formed when an almost circular meander is cut off from the mainstream.
This statement is correct. Oxbow lakes are formed when a river's meander loop becomes so pronounced that the river cuts through the narrow neck of the loop, creating a new straight channel. This process is known as "cutoff" or "abandonment." The loop, which is left isolated from the main river, becomes an oxbow lake.
Statement 2: Oxbow lakes are observed in the upper courses of a river.
This statement is correct. Oxbow lakes are typically found in the upper courses of rivers where the gradient is steep and the river is more prone to meandering. As the river flows through its course, it erodes the outer bank of a bend and deposits sediment on the inner bank, causing the bend to become more pronounced and eventually cutoff.
Statement 3: Oxbow lakes are also called Bayous or cut-offs in the USA.
This statement is correct. In the USA, oxbow lakes are commonly referred to as bayous or cut-offs. The term "bayou" is derived from the Choctaw word "bayuk," meaning a small river. These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the same landforms.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both statements 1 and 3 are correct. Oxbow lakes are formed when a meander loop is cut off from the mainstream, and they are also known as bayous or cut-offs in the USA. However, statement 2 is incorrect as oxbow lakes are found in the upper courses of rivers, not exclusively in the upper courses. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C' - 1 and 3 only.
About Oxbow lakes, consider the following statements: 1. It is formed...
An oxbow lake is a U-shaped body of water that forms when a wide meander from the main stem of a river is cut off, creating a free-standing body of water. This landform is so named for its distinctive curved shape, resembling the bow pin of an oxbow.
These are found in the lower course of a river.