Question

Use Google Earth. Paste the location that is given into the "Search" box. Examine each location at multiple eye altitudes and differing amounts of tilt. For any measurements that use the ruler tool, this can be accessed by clicking on the ruler icon above the image. Search for \(72616.49 \mathrm{~S} 75\) oo \(00.06 \mathrm{~W}\) and zoom out to an eye altitude of 15 miles. How would one describe this river? a. Straight b. Meandering c. Low sinuosity d. Braided

Short answer

At an eye altitude of 15 miles, this river appears to be meandering.

Step-by-step solution

Input the Coordinates

Open Google Earth on your computer. In the search box, paste the coordinates "72616.49 S 75 00.06 W" and press Enter to locate the specific area.

Adjust the View

Once the location is pinpointed, adjust the eye altitude by zooming out until you reach an eye altitude of 15 miles. You can check the eye altitude setting at the bottom of Google Earth's window.

Analyze the River

Observe the river's shape and pattern from the 15 miles altitude. Look for characteristics such as how it flows. If the river winds with many curves, it is meandering. If it has a few simple bends, it is of low sinuosity. If it has multiple channels interwoven, it is braided. A straight river will have a direct path with minimal curves.

Determine the River Type

Based on your observations at 15 miles eye altitude and the descriptions given, classify the river. If the river displays a winding path with many loops, it is meandering. Otherwise, use the other descriptions to make a decision.

Key concepts

Geospatial Analysis

Geospatial analysis involves examining spatial data for geographic insights. It helps us understand patterns and relationships across locations. Using tools like Google Earth, we can explore specific areas by observing their landscape and geography.
This analysis is crucial in various fields, including urban planning, environmental management, and disaster response. By inputting specific coordinates, users can delve into different terrains and gather spatial information. For instance, when examining the coordinates "72616.49 S 75 00.06 W" in Google Earth, you perform a geospatial analysis to determine characteristics of a river. You examine its flow, shape, and layout to classify it as straight, meandering, low sinuosity, or braided.
Key steps in geospatial analysis using Google Earth include:

• Identifying the area using coordinates.
• Observing different altitudes and tilts for comprehensive analysis.
• Using tools like the ruler for precise measurements.

These techniques are indispensable for students learning about geographical features and spatial relationships.

Virtual Fieldwork

Virtual fieldwork replaces physical exploration with digital examination of locations. It's an invaluable tool in modern education, allowing students to explore areas without travel. With platforms like Google Earth, students can engage in virtual fieldwork by examining specific geographical sites.
The process involves examining locations from different perspectives, much like a real-world field trip. Though it's virtual, students still gain insights into geographical formations, like rivers and mountains, and understand their context within a larger landscape.
Virtual fieldwork is beneficial because:

• It's cost-effective, saving resources needed for physical travel.
• It provides access to remote locations that might be otherwise inaccessible.
• It promotes interactive learning through various angles and altitudes.

By leveraging this technology, students can conduct thorough field studies from the comfort of their classrooms, deepening their understanding of Earth's diverse topography.

River Classification

River classification systems help categorize rivers based on their physical properties and flow patterns. This is crucial for understanding their environmental impact and behavior. When using Google Earth, you can visually inspect and classify rivers easily.
Rivers can be classified as:

• *Straight:* Direct path with minimal curves.
• *Meandering:* Winding with many curves and loops.
• *Low Sinuosity:* Displaying few simple bends.
• *Braided:* Characterized by multiple channels that intertwine.

These classifications help in predicting river patterns and potential areas of erosion or deposition. By assessing river characteristics, students learn about their impact on the surrounding environments and their role in shaping landscapes. They can observe how seasonal changes might affect river behavior, just by exploring different times of the year on Google Earth.

Educational Technology

Educational technology integrates digital tools and resources into the learning environment. Google Earth is an excellent tool enhancing geographical education through interactive and engaging experiences.
Technology in education has transformed how students learn about Earth sciences. With tools like Google Earth, they can experience a hands-on approach to geography, making abstract concepts tangible and understandable.
Educational technology benefits include:

• Enhanced student engagement through interactive visual exploration.
• Accessibility to a plethora of geospatial data and imagery.
• Ability to perform detailed measurements and analyses.

Using these technologies, students gain skills in digital literacy while interacting with real-world data. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of geography and earth sciences, preparing them for future academic and career endeavors in these fields.