Explain the formation of a waterfall

The is a layer of harder rock on top of soft rock. The softer rock underneath erodes more quickly, undercutting the hard rock. This leave the hard rock to over hang. Eventually the soft rock is undercut so much the hard rock overhang collapses. This is the initial formation of the waterfall. When the hard overhang collapses into the plunge pool, more erosion occurs. This causes the pool and therefore the waterfall to deepen. Each time the overhang collapses, the waterfall retreats leaving a GORGE. This process is continuous.

HS
Answered by Hannah S. Geography tutor

4265 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how volcanic eruptions occur at destructive plate margins (4 marks usually).


How to I effectively plan my time for writing an essay in an exam?


How can a city become sustainable?


What are the effects of a one child policy? (6 Marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning