CHAPTER 10: Rivers and Geomorphic Processes

These flashcards cover key concepts from Chapter 10, focusing on rivers, hydrology, and geomorphic processes.

What equation represents runoff calculation?

Runoff = precipitation – (groundwater infiltration + evaporation + transpiration)

What is a drainage basin?

The total area drained by a stream and its tributaries.

What are tributaries?

Smaller streams and rivers that flow into the main river.

What primarily controls stream erosion and deposition?

A river’s velocity.

Where is a river's velocity higher in a meander curve?

On the outside of a meander curve compared to the inside.

What factors determine groundwater flow speed?

Elevation, water pressure, and permeability.

In which direction does groundwater flow?

From areas of high hydraulic head to low hydraulic head.

What factors control river discharge?

Size of drainage basin, amount of rainfall, and percentage of runoff.

How is gradient calculated?

Feet divided by miles.

What are the two types of water flow patterns discussed?

Laminar flow and turbulent flow.

How do laminar and turbulent flows differ?

Laminar flow has smooth, parallel layers; turbulent flow has irregular, swirling patterns.

What effect does channel gradient have on stream velocity?

It increases velocity if other factors are constant.

What role does roughness play in stream velocity?

It decreases velocity due to increased friction.

How does channel shape affect stream velocity?

A circular channel shape increases velocity by providing greater distance to friction source.

What is the equation for discharge (Q)?

Q = V x W x D, where V is velocity, W is width, and D is depth.

What happens to discharge and velocity in humid climates?

They increase downstream.

What is bed load in a stream?

Larger grains that are pushed, rolled, slid, and rounded along the bed.

What are the three methods of river erosion?

Hydraulic action, abrasion, solution.

What defines a graded stream?

A smooth, downward-flattening gradient where energy is efficiently used in transporting sediment.

What is an alluvial fan?

A cone-shaped deposit of sediment formed where a high-gradient stream slows down as it flows onto a flat plain.