Thalweg - GCSE Geography Definition

The term 'Thalweg' refers to the path along the bottom of a river or valley that follows the deepest part of the channel. In geography, especially when studying rivers, the thalweg is important because it shows where the river flows fastest. It can also mark the boundary between two countries if a river forms part of the border. In a winding river, the thalweg will often move from one side of the river to the other, following the curves as the deepest parts shift. Understanding the thalweg helps us learn how rivers shape the land over time.