How does base level change affect river systems?

Base level change significantly influences river systems by determining the maximum depth a river can erode. The base level is essentially the lowest point to which a river can flow and erode its channel. This level can be influenced by various factors such as the sea level, the topography of the land, or alterations due to geological forces or human activity.

When the base level rises, rivers can no longer erode downwards effectively, which may lead to sediment deposition and a change in the river's morphology. Conversely, if the base level falls, rivers have the potential to erode deeper into their beds, which can lead to features like incised valleys or increased erosion rates upstream. Thus, the concept of base level is crucial to understanding how rivers shape the landscape over time and how changes in this level can trigger complex responses in river dynamics and sediment transport.