On the Determination of Ripple Geometry

Abstract

Laboratory measurements were carried out on the mobile bed covered by ripples generated by an open channel flow. The bed materials used were cohesionless and reasonably uniform; the steady‐state subcritical flume flow was in equilibrium and it was nearly two‐dimensional. In addition to the conventional runs conducted with water, special runs were conducted with a water and glycerine mixture. Using the results of these measurements, as well as the data of other reliable sources, a series of experimental curves were determined which can be used to predict the length and height of ripples. The analysis of the data indicates that the dimensionless quantities related to the geometry of ripples are functions of two dimensionless variables. One of them must be a combination reflecting the intensity of sediment‐transporting flow, the other must be an arrangement of parameters characterizing the physical nature of the liquid and solid phases involved.