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Understanding River Channel Dynamics
Does Channel Size Increase Downstream?
Explore the relationship between discharge and river channel evolution.

Escarpment Foothills
Within confined and steeply sloping valleys of escarpment foothills, channels increase in size downstream due to increasing discharge. Higher discharge leads to greater erosive force, resulting in wider and deeper channels.
Increased Discharge
Higher water volume downstream provides greater erosive power.
Erosion and Deposition
The balance of erosion and deposition shapes channel size and morphology.
Channel Morphology
Channel shape and size are dynamic and influenced by many factors.
Downstream Changes
Observe how channel characteristics, such as width, depth, and velocity, change as you move downstream. This variation often reflects the cumulative effects of upstream processes.
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