Chapter 17: Problem 13

How does a braided stream differ from a meandering stream?

Short Answer

Expert verified

A braided stream is a network of interconnected channels with a steep gradient, high sediment load, and variable water supply that form due to high sediment supply and variable discharge, often found in mountainous or glacial environments. In contrast, a meandering stream is a single sinuous channel with gentle gradient, low sediment load, stable water supply, and forms due to low sediment supply and constant water flow, typically found in lowland or gently sloping landscapes. The channel bed of a braided stream consists of coarse sediment, while that of a meandering stream consists of fine sediments like sand, silt, and clay.

Step by step solution

Define braided streams

A braided stream is a network of interconnected channels that split and merge, forming a branching pattern. Braided streams typically have a steep gradient, a high sediment load, and a variable water supply.

Define meandering streams

A meandering stream is a single sinuous channel with a relatively constant water flow that forms a series of regular bends called meanders. Meandering streams typically have a gentle gradient, low sediment load, and relatively stable water supply.

Discuss channel characteristics

The channel characteristics of braided streams feature multiple channels separated by active or inactive sediment bars, and the channel bed consists of coarse sediment. On the other hand, meandering streams possess a single channel that snakes back and forth across the floodplain over time. The channel bed is usually made of fine sediments like sand, silt, and clay.

Explain the formation processes

Braided streams form when there's a high sediment supply and the river's discharge is highly variable, such as in environments with rapid surface runoff or melting glaciers. This causes the stream to become choked with sediment, forming bars and islands within the channel and forcing the river to split into multiple channels. On the other hand, meandering streams are formed in regions with relatively low sediment supply and a more constant water flow. The channel erosion on the outer banks of curves and deposition on the inner banks lead to the widening and deepening of the meanders, causing the stream to snake through the landscape.

Describe depositional environments

Braided streams are typically found in locations with steep, mountainous terrain where sediment supply is high, and in glacial environments where the melting ice provides significant amounts of sediment and variable water supply. Meandering streams are more common in lowland environments such as plains and gently sloping landscapes, where the stream gradient is low, and the sediment supply and water flow are relatively stable.

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How does a braided stream differ from a meandering stream?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define braided streams

Define meandering streams

Discuss channel characteristics

Explain the formation processes

Describe depositional environments

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