Which of the following is likely to occur if the gradient of a stream increases? (Assume that the discharge and sediment load remain unchanged.)
A) The stream will begin to deposit more of its load.
B) The amount of aggradation in the channel will increase.
C) The amount of bed load transport will decrease.
D) The stream will begin to erode its channel and/or its banks.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increasing the gradient of a stream will increase its velocity and kinetic energy, which leads to greater erosive power. As a result, the stream will begin to erode its channel and/or its banks.

Which of the Following Is Likely to Occur If the Gradient