Mature - Bends

Mature bends are defined by their specific geometry relative to the overall river system. Curvature Ratio (

): A key indicator of maturity is the ratio of the radius of curvature ( Rccap R sub c ) to the channel width ( mature bends

In a typical meander, sediment deposits on the inner convex bank (point bar). In mature bends, a "phase lag" between flow and curvature can lead to the formation of counter point bars on the concave bank. Mature bends are defined by their specific geometry

). Many mature bends in nature retain a ratio of , which is considered the most hydraulically efficient shape. mature bends