This course on Geology (Rivers and Springs) aims to help learners understand the distribution of Earth's water, the hydrologic cycle, and the characteristics of river systems. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify the components of a drainage basin, explain the different types of streamflow, and analyze the factors influencing sediment production and transport in rivers. The course teaches skills such as calculating flow velocity, understanding dissolved and suspended loads in rivers, and evaluating a stream's capacity and competence. The teaching method involves theoretical explanations supported by real-world examples such as the Grand Canyon and alluvial fans. This course is intended for individuals interested in geology, environmental science, or hydrology, seeking to deepen their knowledge of river systems and water distribution on Earth.
Overview
Syllabus
Surface Water
Distribution of Earth's Water
The Hydrologic Cycle
Drainage Basin (Watershed) • Drainage basins (Watersheds) - Astream drains an area of land called a drainage basin - The Imaginary line separating one basin from another is called a divide
Running Water - Rivers drain much of the land area
River Systems Sediment production • Zone where most sediment is derived . Located in the headwater region of a
Streamflow • Water moves in a river channel under the influence of gravity - Water slowly flowing in a nearly straight path is called laminar fow - Water moving quickly in an erratic fashion both horizontal and vertical movement is caled turbulent flow
Flow Velocity
Dissolved Load . Most of the dissolved load is brought to a stream via groundwater • Dissolved load is not affected by stream velocity - Dissolved minerals precipitate when water chemistry changes
Suspended Load • The largest part of a stream load is carried in suspension
Settling Velocity . Amount of material carried in suspension is controlled by stream velocity and setting velocity of sediments - Settling velocity is the speed at which a particle falls through a stilliquid 1000
Bed Load
Capacity and Competence - Capacity is the maximum load of solid particles a stream can carry - The greater the discharge, the creater the capacity • Competence is the maximum particle size a stream can transport -Streams with a faster velocity have a higher competence
Shaping Stream Valleys
Grand Canyon
Alluvial Fans Alluvial fans are fan-shaped deposits of sediments at the base of mountain
Taught by
Earth and Space Sciences X
