7.4.1 The type of river at A is a consequent river. It flows in the direction of the general slope of the land.

Here are the solutions to Question 7.4:

7.4.1 The type of river at A is a consequent river. It flows in the direction of the general slope of the land.

7.4.2 The human-made feature at B is a pass (likely a mountain pass or a winding road). Its purpose is to provide a route for transportation (e.g., a road or trail) through the mountainous terrain, connecting areas on either side of the steep slope.

7.4.3

• Drainage pattern C: Radial pattern
• Drainage pattern D: Dendritic pattern

7.4.4

• Drainage pattern C (Radial): This pattern develops on a dome-shaped structure or an isolated conical hill/mountain. The streams flow outwards in all directions from a central high point, following the steepest gradient.
• Drainage pattern D (Dendritic): This pattern develops on homogeneous rock (rock with uniform resistance to erosion) or unconsolidated sediments. The topography typically has a gentle, uniform slope, allowing streams to branch out in a tree-like fashion without strong structural control.

7.4.5 The location of the Blyderivierspoort Dam is ideal for several reasons:

• It is situated in a narrow gorge or poort, which means a shorter and less expensive dam wall is required to block the river.
• The steep valley sides provide a strong and stable foundation for the dam wall and efficiently contain a large volume of water.
• The dam is located downstream of a large catchment area (the Blyde River Canyon), ensuring a reliable and sufficient supply of water to fill the reservoir.
• The presence of a canyon suggests the underlying rock is hard and resistant, providing a stable geological base for the dam structure and minimizing seepage.