Scientific Reports (Sep 2024)

Fluvial fan sedimentary characteristics of distributive fluvial system

  • Jiale Liu,
  • Changmin Zhang,
  • Xianghui Zhang,
  • Rui Zhu,
  • Zhao Shaohua

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-72102-x
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 1
pp. 1 – 15

Abstract

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Abstract The characteristics of fan sediment in the distributive fluvial system are evaluated based on a thorough analysis of modern silt in the Guertu river distributive fluvial system, as well as data obtained from UAV aerial photography and satellite remote sensing. The Guertu River Distributive Fluvial System (DFS) is classified into three stages, namely "proximal," "middle," and "distal," based on the examination of river morphology, sediment variations, sedimentary attributes, and other relevant aspects throughout different sections of its tributaries, from the source to the mouth. At the upstream section of the downstream fining sequence, the slope is the steepest and the hydrodynamic conditions are intense, resulting in the formation of a predominantly big gravel braided river. The river bed section has a morphology resembling a combination of a "V" and a "U" shape. It is characterized by a narrow and deep configuration, with a relatively short breadth. The sediment primarily consists of medium to large-sized gravel with minimal sand content. The gravel exhibits good roundness and displays a considerable degree of orientation. The primary microfacies present are braided channel and flood plain. The slope of the central area is decreased in comparison to the nearby end, primarily due to the presence of extensive braided rivers. The river bed has a greater width, with minor eolian dunes visible in the river channel. The gravel particles are predominantly fine to medium in size, and there is an increased amount of sand present. The predominant microfacies are braided channels, floodplains, and eolian dunes. At the distal end, the slope is minimal, the landscape is level, the braided river transitions into a meandering river, the sediment consists primarily of sand, and the signs of bioturbation are clearly visible. The primary microfacies consist of braided channels, meandering channels, floodplains, eolian dunes, lakes, and swamps.

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