Influence of lithology-controlled hydraulics on pothole evolution

What is it about?

The present study showed the influence of lithology-controlled hydraulics on pothole evolution. For this study, using tools of geometry, mathematics, and statistics, the morphology (depth and diameter of aperture) of a sample of 135 potholes has been analyzed from Ghagra waterfall of Tarafeni River, Belpahari, West Bengal, India. It was found that the depths of potholes are proportional to their diameter ( ). Equal percentile distribution of depth and average diameter indicate the consistent rate of evolution of diameter along with depth. Out of total potholes, only 1.5% are circular and 41.48% are near circular while ~ 57% of potholes are either oval or elongated. Variability in diameter (CV = 0.79) of potholes is lesser than variability in the depth (CV = 1.12). The orientation of joints significantly determines the orientation of the major axis of potholes’ diameter. Flow duration and distance from the active channel have a role in determining the size of potholes.

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Why is it important?

This study explores the impact of lithology-controlled hydraulics on pothole evolution. Analyzing 135 potholes from the Ghagra waterfall of Tarafeni River in Belpahari, West Bengal, India, the research employs geometry, mathematics, and statistics tools to examine their morphology (depth and diameter of aperture). Findings reveal a proportional relationship between pothole depth and diameter. The equal percentile distribution of depth and average diameter indicates a consistent rate of diameter evolution along with depth. Notably, 1.5% of potholes are circular, 41.48% are nearly circular, and approximately 57% are oval or elongated. The study identifies lesser variability in pothole diameter (CV = 0.79) compared to depth (CV = 1.12). The orientation of joints significantly influences the major axis orientation of pothole diameter. Factors such as flow duration and distance from the active channel play a role in determining pothole size, which is prevalent in dyke-controlled hydraulics environments. The study underscores the importance of an initial seminal depression for pothole formation and identifies sequential phases in their evolution. This research opens avenues for further investigations into the pothole formation model and provides insights for replicating this evolutionary model in similar environments.

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