Paper 1 · Fluvial Geomorphology
What term describes river flow that moves in smooth, unmixed parallel layers, typical of very slow, shallow water?
Model answer
laminar flow
Also accepted: laminar
Explanation: Laminar flow occurs when water moves in smooth, distinct layers with no mixing between them; it is only found in very slow, shallow flow, since any increase in velocity or depth quickly breaks the layers into turbulence.
Derived from ZIMSEC Geography Paper 1, June 2004, Q5
