canyon systems
Networked erosion channels
Canyon systems are networks of interconnected canyons formed by the same geological processes—typically water erosion over millions of years.
The term emphasizes how individual canyons branch, merge, and relate to each other across a landscape: The canyon systems of the Colorado Plateau drain into the main river.
In oceanography, submarine canyon systems cut through continental shelves.
- gorgeDeep, narrow valley
- ravineDeep, narrow valley
- chasmDeep, steep-sided gap
- cliffVertical rock wall
- erosionGradual wearing away
water erosion · river · sandstone · mesa · plateau · slot · arroyo · gulch · red rock · geological layers · walls · depth · carved · ancient · winding · tributary · drainage · formations
canyon systemsmountain ranges
Extended series of peaks
mountain chains · cordilleras · massifs · escarpments · buttes
canyon systemsplains
Broad, level grasslands
flatlands · coastal plains · prairies · steppes · flood plains
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