A channel cross-profile is a cross-section of only the river channel.

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A steep, V-shaped cross-profile is typical in the upper course. This is because of vertical erosion by the river combined with weathering and mass movement of the valley slopes.

In the middle course, the river is flowing through lower-lying land. The gradient is gentler, so the river begins to meander (bend). As it does this the dominant type of erosion becomes lateral, eroding the valley sides. The makes the valley broader. Also, the rate of weathering increases on the softer rocks of the valley sides.

In the lower course, the river is passing through the low-lying country. Flooding results in deposition building up the flood plain and this, along with migrating meanders builds up and widens the valley further.

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River cross profiles show you a cross-section, taken sideways, of a river’s channel and/or valley at certain points in the river’s course.

Find out more about the cross profile of a river.

A valley cross-profile includes the channel, the valley floor and the sides of the valley.

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In the upper course, the channel is very narrow and very shallow. By the middle course, the channel becomes wider and deeper usually over 1 m. By the lower course, the channel becomes wider still and the channel is much deeper.

Find out more about the cross profile of a river.