How do interfluves differ from river valleys in form?

Interfluves are elevated areas between river valleys, characterised by their higher altitude and less eroded terrain.

Interfluves and river valleys are two contrasting geographical features that are shaped by the processes of erosion and deposition. The primary difference between them lies in their form and the role they play in the landscape. Interfluves are the areas of higher ground that separate adjacent river valleys. They are typically less eroded and therefore stand at a higher altitude than the surrounding valleys.

River valleys, on the other hand, are low-lying areas that have been carved out by the erosive action of rivers over time. They are characterised by their V or U-shaped profiles, steep sides, and flat or gently sloping valley floors. The river that flows through the valley is responsible for its formation, continually eroding the valley floor and depositing sediment along its course. This results in a landscape that is significantly lower and more eroded than the surrounding interfluves.

Interfluves, in contrast, are formed by the areas of land left untouched by the erosive action of rivers. They are the ridges or high points that separate river valleys, and their formation is largely due to the lack of erosion rather than the active processes that shape valleys. As such, interfluves tend to be less dramatic in their topography, with a more gentle, rolling profile compared to the steep sides of river valleys.

In terms of their role in the landscape, interfluves and river valleys also differ. River valleys are often the sites of human settlement due to their access to fresh water and fertile soils, while interfluves, being higher and less accessible, are less frequently inhabited. However, their higher altitude can make them important for other reasons, such as providing viewpoints or serving as natural boundaries.

In summary, while both interfluves and river valleys are integral parts of a landscape, they differ significantly in their form. River valleys are low-lying, eroded areas shaped by the action of rivers, while interfluves are the higher, less eroded areas that separate these valleys.