In comparison, stream capacity refers to the volume of sediment that may be moved by a stream. Stream Channel Patterns and Processes Stream channels may be meandering or braided, depending on the energy of the stream, the grain sizes of the channel materials, and the characteristics of the sediments that are being transported. Braided streams consist of overlapping channels that divide and rejoin to each other and are separated by short mounds of sediment called bars . In general, braided streams have gravel and other coarse particles and fairly high velocities, competence and capacities. They also have large widths compared with their depths and steep stream gradients .
Stream gradient refers to the decline in elevation of a stream with distance downstream.
Braided streams often occur at the front of melting glaciers, where coarse materials are plentiful, or coming out of high mountains, where steep gradients are present. Meandering rivers are characterized by relatively slow velocities when compared with most braided streams. The channels of meandering streams are deep when compared with their widths. Meandering streams also have relatively gentle gradients. Floodplain Dynamics Rivers are important for water, transportation, and other human needs.