Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Maximum current
on left side of
channel
Maximum current
at center of channel
1
2
2
1
Deep
channel
(thalweg)
Point bar
deposits
3
Maximum current
on right side of
channel
3
4
5
Maximum current
at center of channel
4
Maximum current on
left side of channel
5
(a)
Figure 16.24 Features of stream meanders.
(a) Deposition of sediment, forming a point bar, oc-
curs on the inside of a meander because stream
velocity is low. In contrast, the stream erodes the
cutbank on the outside of the meander because ve-
locity is high. (b) Note the distinct point bar and cut-
bank in this stream meander along the Kansas River.
(b)
Fluvial Geomorphology and Stream Processes
The chapter thus far has focused on fluvial processes and the
nature of stream channels. This point marks a good time to
review these concepts with two interactivities. Go to the
Geo
Media Library
and first select
Fluvial Geomorphology and
Stream Processes
. This animation reviews the concepts of
channel geometry, stream flow, and the way water erodes
and transports sediment. As you work your way through this,
consider how streams are viewed as holistic systems that shape
Earth's surface. A second exercise is
Identification of Stream
Landforms,
which is a drag-and-drop exercise that assesses
your ability to identify features within streams. Once you com-
plete the exercises, answer the questions at the end to test your
understanding of these concepts.
