Empirical analysis of meandering and flow characteristics in laboratory and natural channels
A promising hypothesis relating meander geometry to basic flow hydraulics was presented by Anderson in 1967. Although he successfully applied his theory to a data set from 27 laboratory channels, a general verification of his proposed relationships has not been reported. Consequently, the applicability of his results to a larger set of both laboratory and field data was investigated. Regression analysis of data from 161 laboratory and natural meandering alluvial channels indicates that the fundamental relationship proposed by Anderson between the relative meander length (lambda/..sqrt..A) and Froude number is valid for the laboratory channels considered in this study. However, analysis of field data indicates very poor correlation between these variables. These deviations are discussed, and it is suggested that stream discharge, properties of the sediment found in the channel perimeter, and channel or valley slope are additional factors that influence meandering in natural alluvial channels. Alternative models developed to explain the origin and characteristics of meanders should incorporate these three geomorphic variables with hydraulic variables if the models are to be applicable to the field situation. 24 references, 2 figures, 2 tables.
- Research Organization:
- Argonne National Lab., IL (USA); Purdue Univ., Lafayette, IN (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-31109-ENG-38
- OSTI ID:
- 5577242
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-8310199-3; ON: DE84003461
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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