ABSTRACT
In this study, the changes of the incoming flow and sediment processes, the erosion-accumulation processes, and the diversion of flow and sediment in typical braided channels at downstream of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) had been analyzed by using the prototype observed data. Based on the theory on river dynamics and riverbed evolution, a relation formula for the scouring and silting in braided channels and the associated changes of sediment inflow from upstream was built, and the response of the change of the sediment inflow from upstream and the diversion flow and sediment on scouring and silting of the braided channel were analyzed as well. According to the above analysis of the prototype observed data and the relative theory, the tendency of the typical braided channel evolution in the middle and lower reaches ofYangtze River can be forecasted according to the incoming flow and sediment condition after the operations of TGR. Research results may provide reference for braided channel regulations.
