Are Streams Features of Erosion or Deposition?
It depends on several factors: Velocity of the stream Velocity is the key factor that determines a streams ability to erode, transport, and deposit sediment. Average speed of stream is ~ 5 km/hr. During flood stage, speed may be up to ~25 km/hr The maximum velocity of a stream is at the center on straight segments and at the outside curved segments. Each size of sediment (clay, silt, sand, gravel) has certain speed requirements for erosion, transportation, and deposition. Gradient (steepness) of the stream Gradient is the slope of a stream (rise/run). It is usually measured in feet/mile. Gradient decreases as stream moves from the mountains towards the sea. Mountain stream gradients are 50 to 200 ft/mile whereas lowland stream gradients are less than 5 feet/mile. Streams with steeper gradients have higher velocities. Channel Shape and Roughness Flowing water drags against stream channel and is slowed down by friction. The more surface area of the confining channel, the slower the strea
