GENERAL GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Stream Velocity Depends on the Shape and Size of the Channel Water flow in a stream is primarily related to the stream’s gradient, but it is also controlled by the geometry of the stream channel. As shown in Figure 14.15, water flow velocity decreases due to friction along the stream bed.

Detailed explanation-2: -If the slope is too gentle and velocity is too slow to transport the sediments being supplied by weathering and erosion, the sediments will pile up. This increases the gradient which causes the water to flow faster which increases erosion and transport, which then reduces the gradient.

Detailed explanation-3: -erosion, by rivers and streams, is a relatively high energy process and requires a minimum velocity before even loose particles, let alone unweathered bedrock, are moved.

Detailed explanation-4: -much water a section of stream holds (volume), and how fast that water is moving (velocity). Stream flow can be determined by measuring the velocity of water and the cross sectional area of. the stream. The formula to use when calculating stream flow is: stream flow = velocity x cross sectional area.