Describe three ways in which a river transports its load.

-Suspension-light insoluble materials like clay, silt and mud particles are
transported downstream as a mixture. The materials may also float on the
surface or be submerged. They can be moved for long distances, hence suspension.
-Saltation/hydraulic liftmaterials are moved in a series of short hops and
jumps. They are briefly lifted up by the force of the moving water. They are
transported for a short distance, then land back on the river bed by gravity. This
process is repeated again and again, hence saltation.
-Traction-heavy materials like boulders are pushed and rolled along the river
bed by the force of moving water. They are never lifted up because they are too
heavy. They are pushed over a short distance at a time.
-Solution-river water may dissolve soluble minerals
from its bed and sides. The minerals may also enter the river by surface run-off that
has dissolved the rocks it has passed over. The load is therefore transported in
dissolved form over long distances. Some dissolved minerals give water a salty
taste.