Module One

HYDROLOGY AND FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY

Introduction Icon.png Introduction

This module should be read in conjunction with the Programme of Study.

The Programme of Study lists the topics that are in the module and gives you the relevant page references for your textbook. This module aims to give you more direction as you work through the various topics. It will aim to highlight the most important items in the topic, as well as areas that need particular care. It will also point you towards the resources you should be using.

Remember to double-check the syllabus to make sure you cover all the items that you need to.

Link Icon.png Synoptic Links

Although you learn geography in topics there are links with other units in the course. Look out for these throughout the course materials going forwards. Synoptic links relating to what you have learnt will be identified in each part topic. Synoptic links relating to what you have yet to learn will be identified at the end of each topic or unit.

Module Overview Icon.png Module Overview

This module looks at the water cycle and rivers and their interrelationship with humans. You start by looking at how the water (hydrological) cycle works and how water moves through the drainage basin from the atmosphere, to a river, to oceans and how this repeats through a variety of different methods that we call flows. You also look at storm hydrographs and how the physical and human landscape influence the propensity for a river to flood. Then you look at the different features and landforms of a river as we move from its upper course (source) to its lower course (mouth), including the processes of erosion, transport and deposition that influence and create these landforms. You then learn about the Hjülstrom curve and the importance of types of flow within a river channel. Finally, you look at how humans manage and impact on rivers including a recent case study of a flood event including its impacts, and evaluating the attempts to reduce the impact of the flood.

Consolidate Icon.png Consolidate

In each topic you will find a Consolidate section where additional resources will be categorised in the following manner:

  • Compulsory Resources – Important resources that every student should use.
  • Important Resources – These resources are very useful and it is highly recommended that you study most of them.
  • Optional Resources – Supplementary information if you want to investigate a topic in more depth or have some spare time on your hands.

Topics Icon.png Topics

Topic One (1.1): The Drainage Basin System

Topic Two (1.2): Discharge Relationships Within Drainage Basins

Topic Three (1.3): River Channel Processes and Landforms

Topic Four (1.4): The Human Impact