Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 14.10
Vertical long-sections (a) and (b) and
crosssection (c) through a stream, showing styles of water
movement and isovels linking points of equal velocity (1ยท0
marks the v
max
).
Plate 14.6
Turbulent flow with eddies in flood conditions on
the river Severn, where it is constricted through Ironbridge
Gorge, Shropshire. The section is 3 m wide.
Photo: Ken Addison.
Vital parameters of velocity and discharge are bound up in river flow and its geomorphic
activity. In addition to varying with distance from the river bed and banks, velocity
changes at-a-point with turbulence and discharge but is fairly constant downstream. This
reflects downstream increases in hydraulic efficiency which compensate for declining
channel slope and potential energy. Discharge varies at-a-point with the hydrographic
response to quickflow and delayed flow and increases downstream as tributaries
