Prediction of cluster bed-forms formation over gravel- bed rivers

Cluster microforms are types of small scale bedforms found in the surface layer of some gravel bed rivers. These bedforms are comprised of discrete, organized groupings of particles that sit above the average elevation of the surrounding bed. In this study, flow and sediment characteristics were measured in a laboratory flume with and without the presence of clusters. Experiments were performed under steady flow conditions with clear water over uniform sediments. A statistical analysis using logistic regression was performed to examine the correlation between the occurrence of clusters and various combinations of measured parameters. It was found that clustering was best predicted by and parameters. It is thought that these variables work best at predicting the presence of clusters because they are descriptive of hydraulic and sedimentary conditions.