Waterfalls can form in a surprising new way. Here's how. For the first time, scientists have demonstrated that it's possible for a river to spontaneously form a waterfall.

But waterfalls are not just beautiful; they also help scientists decipher Earth’s history because of the geologic clues that can be gleaned from the ways they form.

Earth's largest waterfall is hiding in the ocean. The Denmark Strait cataract is buried inside Arctic waters and stretches over 11,500 feet. In comparison, the Niagara Falls, comprising three ...