A review of mathematical models of river planform changes

Abstract

AbstractDifferent mathematical models of river planform changes exist or are being developed. They are reviewed here by discussing a two‐dimensional depth‐averaged model, various meander models and a model for the braided Brahmaputra‐Jamuna River in Bangladesh. Much emphasis is placed on topics where further research is needed. It is concluded that the models help in understanding the underlying processes, but cannot yet be considered generally valid and easy‐to‐use software packages. In the hands of experienced geomorphologists or river engineers, however, some of the models do already form valuable tools which allow better predictions of future river planforms.