Bedform spacing from defect dynamics

Abstract

Research Article| August 01, 1999 Bedform spacing from defect dynamics B. T. Werner; B. T. Werner 1Complex Systems Laboratory, Cecil and Ida Green Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0225, USA Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar G. Kocurek G. Kocurek 2Department of Geological Sciences, University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78703, USA Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Geology (1999) 27 (8): 727–730. https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1999)027<0727:BSFDD>2.3.CO;2 Article history first online: 02 Jun 2017 Cite View This Citation Add to Citation Manager Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Tools Icon Tools Get Permissions Search Site Citation B. T. Werner, G. Kocurek; Bedform spacing from defect dynamics. Geology 1999;; 27 (8): 727–730. doi: https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1999)027<0727:BSFDD>2.3.CO;2 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Refmanager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentBy SocietyGeology Search Advanced Search Abstract Spacing is a time-varying characteristic of bedform fields deriving from the behavior of defects (ends of crest lines) in the bedform pattern. In a model based on this hypothesis, crest line length is lost and spacing increases because bedform defects, which are smaller in height and faster migrating than surrounding bedform crest lines, merge with larger bedforms as defects migrate through bedform fields. Spacing in large bedform fields asymptotically increases with the logarithm of time as pairs of oppositely facing defects meet and annihilate. Spacing in small bedform fields, such as flumes, exponentially approaches a fixed value as defects are eliminated at the boundaries of the field. Model predictions are compatible with observed spacing of transverse bedforms, ripples formed under waves and linear dunes, calling into question the widespread assumption that bedform spacing approaches a steady-state value characteristic of fluid flow and sediment transport over two-dimensional bedforms. This content is PDF only. Please click on the PDF icon to access. First Page Preview Close Modal You do not have access to this content, please speak to your institutional administrator if you feel you should have access.