Explore the fundamentals of surface water systems and river dynamics in this 43-minute geology lecture. Delve into the distribution of Earth's water, the hydrologic cycle, and the concept of drainage basins. Examine the mechanics of running water, including laminar and turbulent flow, and understand how rivers shape landscapes. Learn about sediment transport, including dissolved, suspended, and bed loads, as well as the concepts of stream capacity and competence. Investigate the formation of stream valleys, using the Grand Canyon as a prime example, and discover the characteristics of alluvial fans. Gain insights into the complex interplay between water, sediment, and landscape evolution in this comprehensive exploration of rivers and springs.
Overview
Syllabus
Surface Water
Distribution of Earth's Water
The Hydrologic Cycle
Drainage Basin (Watershed) • Drainage basins (Watersheds) - Astream drains an area of land called a drainage basin - The Imaginary line separating one basin from another is called a divide
Running Water - Rivers drain much of the land area
River Systems Sediment production • Zone where most sediment is derived . Located in the headwater region of a
Streamflow • Water moves in a river channel under the influence of gravity - Water slowly flowing in a nearly straight path is called laminar fow - Water moving quickly in an erratic fashion both horizontal and vertical movement is caled turbulent flow
Flow Velocity
Dissolved Load . Most of the dissolved load is brought to a stream via groundwater • Dissolved load is not affected by stream velocity - Dissolved minerals precipitate when water chemistry changes
Suspended Load • The largest part of a stream load is carried in suspension
Settling Velocity . Amount of material carried in suspension is controlled by stream velocity and setting velocity of sediments - Settling velocity is the speed at which a particle falls through a stilliquid 1000
Bed Load
Capacity and Competence - Capacity is the maximum load of solid particles a stream can carry - The greater the discharge, the creater the capacity • Competence is the maximum particle size a stream can transport -Streams with a faster velocity have a higher competence
Shaping Stream Valleys
Grand Canyon
Alluvial Fans Alluvial fans are fan-shaped deposits of sediments at the base of mountain
Taught by
Earth and Space Sciences X
