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2.4.1.7 V-Shaped Valley

Rivers or streams in the headwaters (or youthful stage) are often characterized by V-shaped valleys. This shape predominates while downcutting exceeds lateral erosion. In mountain areas, the V-shape distinguishes a stream valley from a glacial valley which is U-shaped.

Images
Taughannocak Falls, the tallest and highest straight falls in the United States.
Taughannocak Falls, the tallest and highest straight falls in the United States.
Original picture from the Ward Collection
River valley cross section: headwater, erosional regime  Youthful valleys in the high Andes, northeast of La Paz, Bolivia.  Taughannocak Falls, the tallest and highest straight falls in the United States.  Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming.  Waterfall. 

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