Gorge
A deep cleft resulting from weathering and the erosive activity of rivers
Real World Example
The Huang He Valley, also known as the Yellow River Valley, is home to many gorges formed by the river's erosion over time. These gorges were crucial for ancient Chinese civilizations as they provided fertile land for agriculture, thanks to the nutrient-rich silt deposited by the river. The ability to farm successfully supported large populations and led to the development of organized societies. Today, the values of utilizing natural resources sustainably still matter, as modern farming relies on understanding and working with the environment. For instance, farmers today use techniques like contour plowing to prevent soil erosion, similar to how ancient people depended on the river's natural deposits.