Reference no: EM132339109
Question - Calculating head loss in a stream
The ability of a stream to cause erosion can be dissipated as it loses energy while moving downstream. This loss of energy is described as head loss, hL, and is a function of the channel roughness (n), shape (RH) and velocity. As shown, this value is dimensionless, or ft/ft. The hL value is "head loss per section of stream". So, you would need to multiply the hL by L, length of channel, to get total head loss for a length of stream.
hL = n(1/4RH)(V2/2g)

The above trapezoidal channel is a dredged (excavated) channel, and it is flowing at a rate of 800 cfs. For values of n, use Table 6.1 in text.
Calculate the head loss (ft) for the following two scenarios:
a. Channel not maintained, with overgrown weeds, brush.
b. Earth packed, straight and clean, with no weeds or brush.