What happens to the flow velocity and erosive power of a stream during a high discharge event if levees have been created to confine flow to the channel? (Remember Q = wdv)
A)velocity increases because the width does not increase,and the erosive power increases.
B)velocity increases because depth does not increase,and the erosive power increases.
C)velocity decreases because the depth of the channel is significantly greater,and the erosive power increases.
D)velocity decreases because the depth of the channel is significantly greater,and the erosive power decreases.
E)there is no change to flow velocity and erosive power as the river is still the same water body.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When levees confine the flow to the channel, the width does not increase significantly, so the velocity increases to accommodate the higher discharge, leading to increased erosive power.

What Happens to the Flow Velocity and Erosive Power of a Stream