New measure of the topologic structure of dendritic drainage networks

Abstract

A new measure of network topologic structure, the E index, is developed and applied. The index is shown to be a practical refinement of Smart's ambilateral classes and is tested on Strahler third and fourth order networks drawn from two regions. By means of interregional comparisons and intraregional tests on networks of permanent channel flow and valley pattern, the E index is shown to be capable of interpretation in terms of network growth processes at least as an indicator for further research incorporating metric elements.