Channel Variables

Starter: what does this show?

1. Describe and explain the changes identified in the Bradshaw model.

2. Define :

• River discharge
• Hydraulic radius
• Wetted perimeter
• Channel roughness

3. Below are some changes on the Murray River in Australia. Does it fit with the Bradshaw Model? Explain.

4. A river regime is the seasonal variation in river flow / discharge. This can depend on:

• The amount and nature of precipitation
• Seasonal variations in temperature & evapotranspiration
• Changes in vegetation cover
• Variations in rock types, soil types and the shape and size of the drainage basin.

Which of these do you think is likely to have the greatest impact? Explain.

5. From this information, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_rivers_by_discharge create a graph of depth-equivalent discharge (mean annual discharge / drainage basin area) and comment on your findings.

PLENARY: Why is important to understand the hydraulic geometry and discharge of rivers?