Chapter 28, Problem 10RQ

To determine

The effect of stream’s gradient on stream speed.

Answer to Problem 10RQ

A stream’s gradient affects the speed of the stream. The steeper the gradient, greater will be the stream flow.

Explanation of Solution

In a stream, the water flows due to the effect of gravity. Due to which, stream flow will be greater where the slope is steep. The stream gradient can be defined as the vertical drop in the elevation of a channel to the length of the drop. The stream speed will be more when the gradient is steep whereas for a flatter gradient, the stream speed will be nominal. Hence, the gradient of a stream greatly influences the stream speed.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the steeper the gradient, greater will be the stream flow.