1. Increased Erosion:
* Downcutting: The steeper gradient will give the stream more energy, causing it to erode downward into the bedrock or sediment. This creates a deeper channel and steeper banks.
* Lateral Erosion: As the stream cuts down, it will also widen its channel through erosion of the banks.
2. Changes in Channel Shape:
* Narrowing: The increased downcutting may cause the channel to become narrower, especially in areas where the stream is eroding into resistant rock.
* Meandering: The increased energy may lead to the development of meanders, as the stream seeks the path of least resistance and erodes the outer bends of the channel.
3. Changes in Flow Velocity and Discharge:
* Increased Velocity: The steeper gradient will cause the stream to flow faster.
* Increased Discharge: While the overall discharge might not necessarily increase, the increased velocity will result in a higher transport capacity, leading to more sediment being moved downstream.
4. Development of Terraces:
* As the stream cuts down, it may leave behind remnants of the former floodplain, which appear as elevated terraces along the sides of the channel.
5. Formation of Waterfalls:
* If the uplift creates a significant change in elevation, the stream may form waterfalls as it cascades over the steeper gradient.
6. Changes in Sediment Load:
* The increased erosion will cause the stream to carry a heavier sediment load, leading to the deposition of sediment in areas where the gradient decreases.
Overall, the response of the stream to tectonic uplift is to adjust its channel morphology, flow characteristics, and sediment transport to accommodate the new, steeper gradient. This process is known as stream rejuvenation.
