Review of step-pool hydrodynamics in mountain streams

Step-pools are one of the major types of bed morphology prevalent in mountain streams. They have a unique flow structure as compared to low-gradient streams, in terms of large boundary elements and alternating super-critical and sub-critical flow conditions, which result in a non-uniform flow regime...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Progress in physical geography 2019-10, Vol.43 (5), p.607-626
Main Authors: Kalathil, Sruthi Thazhathe, Chandra, Venu
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aeration
Aerodynamics
Air entrainment
Computational fluid dynamics
Energy dissipation
Entrainment
Fishways
Flow resistance
Fluid flow
Fluid mechanics
Hydraulic models
Hydrodynamics
Morphology
Mountain streams
Nonuniform flow
Pools
Streams
Subcritical flow
Turbulence
Uniform flow
Water flow
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Summary:Step-pools are one of the major types of bed morphology prevalent in mountain streams. They have a unique flow structure as compared to low-gradient streams, in terms of large boundary elements and alternating super-critical and sub-critical flow conditions, which result in a non-uniform flow regime. Step-pools may also be constructed artificially to restore mountain incisions, and for creating close-to-nature fish passes. For hydraulic model development and various design considerations, the accurate prediction of flow phenomenon is required. This necessitates a detailed study of the turbulence phenomenon in natural step-pool reaches and its effect on the total flow. However, the influence of aerated conditions in step-pool hydrodynamics has not yet been adequately addressed. This paper presents a review of the mechanism of flow resistance and energy dissipation in step-pool mountain streams. Also, the significance of incorporating air entrainment in flow analysis, limitations and the way forward in modeling air–water flow in laboratory studies are discussed.
ISSN:0309-1333
1477-0296
DOI:10.1177/0309133319859807