Thesis
A physical model of dry ravel movement
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2004
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/444
Abstract
Dry ravel is a gravity-induced downslope surface movement of soil grains, aggregates, and rock materials that commonly occurs on steep hillslopes after disturbances such as wildfires. A quantitative analysis and model of dry ravel is needed to understand the behavior and effects of dry ravel movement. In this study, a physical-based model is developed based on classic mechanical laws and particle flow theory. The model predicts source locations, movement path, and deposition areas of dry ravel produced after wildfires. The short-term dry ravel process is computed with theoretical calculations, and the long-term effects are described with both theoretical calculations and empirical functional characterization. The sensitivity of the input coefficients, and provide a suitable range for these input coefficients are assessed. To calibrate and validate the model, the estimation of dry ravel from a wildfire area in the San Dimas Experimental Forest in southern California was compared with experimental results. The comparison shows that the model is suitable for analyzing dry ravel on steep slope, with easily weathered parent material.
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Details
- Title
- A physical model of dry ravel movement
- Creators
- Xiangyang Fu
- Contributors
- Joan Q. Wu (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; Pullman, Wash. :
- Identifiers
- 99900525112601842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis