Movie:Thermal Mixing at Channel Confluence

Information Page: Thermal Mixing at Channel Confluence

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Thermal Mixing at Channel Confluence

Key Attributes

Domain:	terrestrial, hydrology
Keywords:	Thermal mixing
Model name:	3D Detached Eddy Simulations
Name:	George, Constantinescu
Where:	small river confluence in Illinois
When:	minutes

Short Description

Grade level: Graduate / Professional

Statement: Thermal Mixing at Channel Confluence

Abstract: A small river confluence in Illinois with an asymmetrical confluence and a concordant bed. The different cross-sections in the example focus on mixing of rivers with different water temperatures (thermal mixing). The large-scale engulfing by the ML eddies promotes mixing. The large-scale oscillations of SOV cells play an important role in the mixing between the two streams.

Theory

River confluence example

Confluences are a common element of river networks, especially in the lower reaches and the deltaic floodplain. They are characterized by large-scale turbulent motions. Confluences are even more common in braided river networks, and play an important role in reworking and transporting bedload material.