Final answer:
The size of sediments in braided rivers is typically a. more varied than that in meandering rivers. Braided rivers are characterized by variable water flows and energy conditions that can transport a diverse range of sediment sizes. The environment with mostly sand deposits and layers of gravel is likely a braided river.
Step-by-step explanation:
The size of sediments in braided rivers is generally more varied than that carried by meandering rivers. Braided rivers consist of a network of river channels that split and rejoin, which can carry a mixture of sediments ranging from large boulders to fine silt, reflecting variable water flows and energy conditions. In contrast, meandering rivers, which have a single sinuous channel with a slower flow rate, tend to carry finer sediments as larger particles settle out more quickly in the slower-moving waters.
Based on the descriptions provided:
- Description i is likely referring to a braided river, due to the mention of mostly sand deposits with layers of gravel and cross-bedding, indicative of variable currents and sedimentation.
- Description ii describes an environment with increased sedimentation in slow-moving water, characteristic of a swamp or wetland area.
Thus, to answer the multiple choice question, the correct choice is (a) more varied.