Braided channel formation as response to the process of the flow capacity equalization

Abstract

On the basis of the flows plan drawing a technique is introduced which permits to calculate the flow kinetic energy, transporting capacity and bed load discharge in braided channels, the calculations being made for various types of channel furcation of the Lena River. The equalization process is most pronounced in complicated (morphologically) ramifications. Considering one of the branches, the kinetic energy increases where the flow skirts islands and point bars, however the bed load discharge does not necessarily increase. The kinetic energy changes depend on the changes in the flow pattern and channel bed relief.