The Impact of Channel Geometry on Flood Deposits Between Red Rock Pass and Pocatello. Based on this map of the flood path, between Red Rock Pass and Pocatello, explain the occurrence of flood deposits based on the channel geometry and how channel geometry affects basal shear stress and stream power. Assume that water discharge does not change through this reach.

The Impact of Channel Geometry on Flood Deposits Between Red Rock Pass and Pocatello

The map of the flood path between Red Rock Pass and Pocatello demonstrates a reach of the channel with variable geometry, ranging from narrow and sinuous in the western section too wide and meandering in the eastern section. This variable geometry has a direct impact on the occurrence of flood deposits in this reach. As the channel widens, the basal shear stress decreases, and consequently, the stream power also decreases (Lane, 2019; Smith, 2017). This decrease in stream power results in a decrease in the ability of the river to transport sediment, allowing for the deposition of sediment and resulting in the formation of flood deposits. In contrast, in the more sinuous sections, the channel is narrower and the basal shear stress increases, resulting in an increase in the stream power (Lane, 2019). The increased stream power enables the river to transport more sediment and results in scouring, rather than deposition of sediment. This explains why there are no flood deposits in the more sinuous sections, as demonstrated on the map. Cont…