Factors that influence river energy

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Factors that influence river energy

Speed of flow

Roughness of the channel

A rough channel reduces the speed of the river because of higher friction.

A smooth channel increases the speed of the river because of lower friction.

Wetted perimeter

A large wetted perimeter causes the speed of the river to be low because there is alot of friction.

A small wetted perimeter causes the speed of the river to be high because there is less friction.

Gradient of channel

A steep gradient causes the speed of the river to be high.

A gentle gradient causes the speed of the river to be slow.

Volume of water

Permeability of rocks

High permeability increases infiltration and decreases surface runoff,thus the volume of water in the river is low.

Low permeability decreases the infiltration and increases surface runoff,thus the volume of water in the river is high.

Presence of vegetation

Abundant vegetation decreases the amount of surface runoff,thus,reducing the amount of water in a river.

Sparse vegetation leads to high surface runoff,thus,increasing the amount of water in a river.

Size of drainage basin

A large drainage basin results in a large volume of water in a river.

A small drainage basin results in a small volume of water in a river.