A stream increases its channel slope as it moves downstream. If the water depth remains the same or decreases slightly, this stream will
A) deposit some of its sediment load due to a decrease in shear stress.
B) erode additional sediment load due to an increase in shear stress.
C) continue to carry the same sediment load as there is no change in shear stress.
D) deposit some of its sediment load due to a increase in shear stress.
E) erode additional sediment load due to an decrease in shear stress.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in channel slope as a stream moves downstream generally results in an increase in the stream's velocity and shear stress. This increased shear stress enhances the stream's capacity to erode additional sediment from the stream bed and banks.

A Stream Increases Its Channel Slope as It Moves Downstream