Professional Documents
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• A method of classifying or
ordering the hierarchy of
natural channels.
W
D
V
depth
width
Simple channel:
Q=WxDxV
Discharge increases downstream but how
do W, D, and V adjust to the increasing
discharge?
Q=WDV
W = width
D = depth
V = velocity
Long profile
Relief
Gradient:
Reach
Relief
ft/mi or m/km
Reach
Traveling down a typical stream from its head to its
mouth:
• Discharge increases.
• Gradient decreases.
Q V dA
- Velocity measurements V
A
Velocity determination: Float Method
Bankfull flood
occurs on average
about every 1 to 2
years
• Straight
• Meandering
• Braided
Streams generally erode on outer (cut) banks
where velocity is greatest, and deposit on the
inner sides of bends where velocity is slower.
• Four dimensions:
– Longitudinal
– Lateral
– Vertical
– Time