Channel process impact on alluvial placers structure

Abstract

Useful component concentration is mostly controlled by the channel type of the placer-forming stream. The placers are thin and less steady in mountain streams and more thick and steady in semi-mountain rivers. The layer's thickness essentially depends on the stream slope as well as on the mineral particles size.

The layer's parameters and the mineral's distribution in the alluvium change along with the erosion-sedimentation activity of the stream. The bedrock surface morphology also controls placer's structure and mineral particles distribution.