Which of the following features is produced as a result of river capture?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which feature results from river capture (also called stream piracy).

Step 2: Explain the concept River capture happens when a stronger, faster-eroding river cuts back (through headward erosion) into the valley of a neighbouring river and diverts its upper course into its own channel. The key features are:

• Elbow of capture: a sharp bend where the captured river turns abruptly into the capturing stream.
• Beheaded river (misfit/underfit stream): the lower part of the captured river, which is left with much less water.
• Wind gap: the dry, abandoned valley section between the captured river's old course and the point of capture. Water no longer flows through it, so only wind passes.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Wind gap: A direct result of river capture. The old valley floor is left dry. ✔
• B. River terrace: Formed when a river rejuvenates and cuts down into its old floodplain, leaving flat steps. This is due to a fall in base level or uplift, not capture.
• C. Gorge: Formed by vertical erosion, often at waterfalls or in rejuvenated, arid or limestone areas. It is not specifically a capture feature.
• D. Incised meander: Formed when a meandering river is rejuvenated and cuts down deeply. This is also not caused by capture.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. Wind gap.

Tip: Link the features to their causes:

• River capture → elbow of capture, wind gap, misfit stream
• Rejuvenation → terraces, incised meanders, knick points

If you see "capture", think "wind gap" and "elbow".