The capacity of a stream depends on its __________.
A) discharge only
B) velocity only
C) bed load and velocity
D) competence and discharge

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The capacity of a stream is determined by its ability to move sediment, which is influenced by both the volume of water (discharge) and its ability to carry sediment (competence). Therefore, choice D, which incorporates both competence and discharge, is the best answer. Choice A (discharge only) is too narrow as it does not account for sediment transport, and choice B (velocity only) is misleading as a high velocity alone does not necessarily mean a high capacity. Choice C (bed load and velocity) is also too narrow as it does not encompass the role of water volume in sediment transport.

The Capacity of a Stream Depends on Its __________