Hydraulic action - This is when the power of the water hits against the river banks. Air becomes trapped in the cracks of the river bank and bed, and causes the rock to break apart.

Attrition - When rocks that the river is carrying knock and hit against each other. They break apart and turn into smaller pieces. This method is less effective than the other types of erosion

Abrasion - When the load at the bed and banks of a river grinds against the surface like sandpaper. This is the most effective way of erosion.

Solution - When some rocks dissolve in the water e.g. Limestone.

Vertical Erosion - This occurs when a stream flows downhill when a stream tries to reach sea level. This results in the bed being eroded and the river channel gets lowered and creates a smoother profile.

Lateral Erosion - This erosion occurs at the banks and sides of the river which widens it by wearing away the valley sides.

Solution - minerals and rocks are dissolved in water and carried in the solution. This requires the least amount of energy.

Suspension - light material and rocks are carried near the surface which give the river its colour.

Saltation - when small pebbles bounce along the river bed

Traction - heavy boulders and rocks are rolled along the riverbed.