Bedforms

Natural streambed does not exhibit a flatbed surface but takes various geometrical forms known as the bedforms. In this chapter, the experimental and theoretical studies dealing with the formation, geometry, and stability of bedforms are furnished. The predictors of various bedforms are discussed in detail. Bedforms in gravel-bed streams are also detailed. The important feature of this chapter is the presentation of mathematical models proposed by various researchers. Further, the resistance to flow due to bedforms is of paramount importance to river engineers. This issue is also discussed. Numerical examples on bedforms are given at the end of the chapter.