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A contour-based topographic model for hydrological and ecological applications.
I D Moore1, E M O'Loughlin2, G J Burch2
1Dept. Agricultural Engineering, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, U.S.A. 55108.
Earth Surface Processes and Landforms
|April 22, 2020
Summary
This study introduces a digital terrain model that divides landscapes into elements for analyzing water flow. The model aids in predicting surface saturation, solar radiation, and erosion/deposition zones in hydrology and geomorphology.
Area of Science:
- Geomorphology
- Hydrology
- Sedimentology
Background:
- Topographic analysis is crucial for understanding hydrological and geomorphological processes.
- Existing models may not adequately represent complex terrain features for water flow analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel digital model for discretizing 3D terrain into irregular elements.
- To estimate topographic attributes for each element to facilitate hydrological and geomorphological modeling.
- To demonstrate the model's application in predicting surface saturation, solar radiation, and erosion/deposition.
Main Methods:
- Discretization of 3D terrain into irregular polygons using contour lines and orthogonals.
- Estimation of topographic attributes: upslope contributing area, element area, slope, and aspect.
- Application of the model to predict surface saturation, solar radiation distribution, and erosion/deposition zones.
Main Results:
- The model successfully discretizes terrain into natural units suitable for water flow analysis.
- Topographic attributes were estimated for each element, providing detailed spatial information.
- Example applications demonstrated the model's utility in predicting key hydrological and geomorphological phenomena.
Conclusions:
- The digital terrain model offers a versatile approach for representing 3D terrain and water flow.
- The model has significant potential for applications in hydrology, sedimentology, and geomorphology.
- This method provides a foundation for more accurate predictions of environmental processes.
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