A theory of the propagation of bores in channels and rivers

Abstract

A theory is presented of the non-linear propagation of waves and bores in channels of varying cross-section with a basic steady flow governed by frictional resistance; this corresponds to the flow in tidal rivers. The theory provides a condition on the tidal range required to produce a bore, in terms of the geometry and friction parameters of the river, and the propagation of such a bore is then described. The theory is applied to the River Severn and the results agree satisfactorily with observation. The results for the special case of waves moving into still water in a channel of varying section are also noted in detail.