What is a Cut Bank in relation to river formation?

A cut bank refers to the outer edge of a meander in a river where the flow is most forceful, resulting in active erosion. As the river bends, the water travels faster on the outside of the curve, which increases the eroding force on the bank. Over time, this erosion shapes the landscape, creating a steep bank. This is an essential concept in river dynamics because it plays a critical role in the shaping of riverbanks and the overall morphology of river systems.

In contrast, the other options refer to different river features. The area where sediment is deposited relates to point bars, which form on the inside of a meander where the water flows more slowly and sediment settles out. A section of a river that has dried up does not describe the active features of a meander or its formation. A location where rivers diverge refers to a different hydrological phenomenon and does not involve the erosion and shaping processes defined by cut banks. Understanding the role of cut banks helps illustrate the complex interplay of erosion, sediment transport, and river evolution.