Chapter 28, Problem 8RAT

To determine

The correct option for the statement “What factors affect stream speed?”

Answer to Problem 8RAT

The correct option for the statement “What factors affect stream speed” is option (e).

Explanation of Solution

The three variables that are most likely responsible for changing the speed of streamflow are stream gradient, stream discharge, and channel geometry. The stream gradient is the steepness of the slope. If the hill is steeper, then the stream's speed will be more as the influence of gravity will be more. Stream discharge is the amount of water that passes through a certain point with respect to time. The more the stream discharge, more will be the speed of the stream or vice versa. The description of the channel's size and shape is known as channel geometry.

There are many factors in channel geometry, like area, shape, length, and many others. The speed of flow is affected by all these factors, not only the length of the channel.

Conclusion:

The correct option for the statement “What factors affect stream speed” is option (e).