Studies of free meandering river channels (with special reference to the lower Irtysh)

Abstract

Characteristics of the channel process within the lower reaches of the Irtysh Rive are described, some new regularities of the meanders development being revealed. A technique is worked out which permits to check the meanders' theoretical approximations (and therefore the hypotheses on meandering causes and mechanism) against empirical morphometric correlations. The dynamic equilibrium notion is specified for free meandering channels, a new method of meander deformations calculation is outlined based on the assumption of balanced redeposition of load; formulae are derived for approximate estimation of mean and maximum rates of banks displacement within the deformations zone. Angular velocities of planar deformations appeared to bear a relationship to the meanders maturity. An expression is found connecting the channel maximum depth and the degree of the meander's development.