Introducing large rivers

Description

"The book introduces the environmental characteristics of river basins and forms and functions of channels commonly seen among the large rivers of the world. Specific discussions cover their complex geology, water, and sediment. The great lengths of these rivers stretch across a range of different environments. The Mekong, for example, flows on both rock and alluvium with varying form and behaviour. The geological framework of a large river is based primarily on large-scale tectonics commonly derived by plate movements. An uplifted zone, the primary source of sediment in the river, and a nearly subcontinental-scale water catchment area are necessary. A range of morphology exist in large rivers, and the associated floodplains and flood pulses are ecologically important. Large rivers could be geologically long-lived. In future, their forms may change and their functions may alter, following construction of engineering structures and climate change"--;Geological Framework of Large rivers -- Water and Sediment in Large Rivers -- Morphology of Large Rivers -- Large Rivers and their Floodplains: Structures, Functions, Evolutionary Traits and Management with Special Reference to the Brazilian Rivers -- Large River Deltas -- Geological History of Large River Systems -- Anthropogenic Alterations Of Large Rivers and Drainage Basins -- Management of Large Rivers -- The Mekong: A Case-Study On Morphology and Management -- Large Arctic Rivers -- Climate Change and Large Rivers