Optimal channel networks: A framework for the study of river basin morphology

摘要: Optimal channel networks (OCNs) are dendritic structures obtained by minimizing the local and global rates of energy dissipation in a continuously fed (in space time) plane aggregation system reminiscent, based on properties, planform three-dimensional natural drainage networks. Geomorphological fractal properties OCNs known from earlier studies authors. This paper explores further derived optimization rates. Optimality subnetworks basin shapes is investigated as by-product competition for drainage. A new perspective possible prediction width function network, hence its hydrologic response, exploiting OCN techniques, requiring only definition outer boundaries basin. The interplay between hillslope processes development addressed, aiming at relative role mutual interrelations geology optimal organization structure mature river basins. Also addressed issue multiscaling multifractality spatial network. It concluded that approaches provide comprehensive framework study morphology geophysical structures.