The flow velocity, or speed of flow, can influence the shape and rate of erosion of a river system. The cross-sectional shape of a river dictates how much friction will impact the flow of water within a river. Finally, the sediment load, or the amount of rocks and soil in the river, impacts its flow velocity and shape.The velocity of a river is determined by many factors, including the shape of its channel, the gradient of the slope that the river moves along, the volume of water that the river carries and the amount of friction caused by rough edges within the riverbed. Access to a fresh water supply is affected by the following factors: Climate – low levels of rainfall and high temperatures lead to water deficits . When rainfall is low, there is less water available. When temperatures are high, water evaporates and so there is less available to use.
