Why do Himalayan rivers form more bends after entering the plains?

Correct answer: Because slope decreases and flow becomes slower

The direct answer is A: the slope becomes gentler and the flow becomes slower. Himalayan rivers carry much sediment and flow rapidly in steep mountains. After entering the plains, the land gradient decreases sharply. Step by step: lower slope reduces the river’s speed and energy; the river cannot continue in a perfectly straight, steep channel; erosion on the outer bank and deposition on the inner bank make the channel curve; repeated growth of curves produces meanders. Option A is correct because reduced gradient and slower flow encourage bends. Option B is wrong because Himalayan rivers do not freeze in the sea. Option C is wrong because these rivers generally do not dry immediately on reaching the plains. Option D is wrong because not touching rocks is not the direct reason for meandering. Other factors, including sediment load and bank material, also help, but the key school-level reason is reduced slope. Memory cue: steep mountains make fast flow; gentle plains make meanders.