The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The evolution of landforms by running water is typically classified into three stages: Youth, Mature, and Old. These stages describe the changing characteristics of the river channel, the surrounding landscape, and the dominant geomorphic processes (erosion vs. deposition) as the river progresses from its source to the mouth.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: In the Old Stage, smaller tributaries are few and possess very gentle gradients. The river system is fully integrated, and the flow is sluggish due to the lack of slope.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Streams in the old stage do not flow in straight channels. Instead, they meander freely over vast floodplains. Straight channels with V-shaped valleys are characteristic of the Youth Stage, where vertical erosion is dominant.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: In the old stage, the landscape is not well above sea level with high relief. Rather, the vast landscape is at or slightly above sea level, characterized by low relief. The landforms are reduced to a low, undulating plain known as a peneplain. High relief is a feature of the Youth Stage.
Key Takeaway: The Old Stage of a river is characterized by dominant depositional activity, extensive meandering, the formation of oxbow lakes, and a landscape reduced to a base-level peneplain with very low relief.