Turbidity Current with Erosion and Deposition

Abstract

The equations which govern the movement of two‐dimensional gradually varied turbidity currents in reservoirs and over beaches are derived and solved numerically. Turbidity currents are sediment‐laden gravity currents that exchange sediment with the bed by erosion or deposition as the flow travels over the downslope. Turbidity currents derive this driving force from the sediment in suspension. They experience a resisting shear force on the bed and entrain water from above. Turbidity currents can be eroding or depositive, accelerating or decelerating, dependent on the combination of initial conditions, bed slope, and size of sediment particles. They can be controlled from upstream (supercritical) or downstream (subcritical). Gravity currents with and without erosion and deposition are examined in order to understand the effects of sediment exchange on the flow.