EARTHSC 2GG3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 13: Sinuosity, River Engineering, 100-Year Flood
29 Dec 2019
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Document Summary
Stream profile is similar worldwide and at all scales. Implies an equilibrium process is at work. There is a balance between discharge and sediment load. Discharge: volume of water passing per unit of time. Sediment load: amount of loose material the stream is carrying. Almost always runs down to a large still body of water. Causes greater sinuosity of channel, more water stored in the channel. Slows the trip downhill by increasing the length of the stream, decreased gradient. Straight channels steeper gradient and faster flow. Meandering channels less steep gradient and slower flow. Eventually meets up with other erosion areas to straighten the stream. Changes to system result in negative feedback response which returns system to equilibrium. Stream will meander through a flood plain over time. Building on a floodplain is a gamble. Does contain fertile soil, flooding makes the soil great, brings many minerals and nutrients.
