An Analytical Model for Velocity Distribution in Transition Zone for Channel Flows over Inflexible Submerged Vegetation

The estimation of velocity distribution plays a major role in the hydrodynamics of vegetated streams or rivers of extensive natural floodplains. The velocity profile in vegetated channels can be divided into three zones: uniform zone which is close to bed with uniform velocity distribution, logarithmic zone which involves the main channel with no vegetive cover and the transition zone that is affected by the upper zone flow. In order to arrive at an analytical solution to the force balance that governs the flow specific turbulence, characteristics of the flow through the vegetation are required. A new analytical model for the velocity distribution in the transition zone of vegetated (inflexible submerged vegetation) channels is hereby developed. The model is based on a force equilibrium equation and on Prandtl Mixing Length concept. Vegetation is treated as a homogeneous field of identical cylindrical stems and the flow field considered as uniform and steady. The proposed procedure is straightforward; it follows principles of fluid mechanics and shows good agreement with laboratory flume experiments. The new model can be employed for an exact estimation of discharge through naturally vegetated rivers. The model has been calibrated and verified. The results imply a desirable correlation between calculated and observed data.