Kinematic Shock: A Sensitivity Analysis

A series of numerical experiments is performed to determine the flow and channel characteristics that are most conducive to kinematic wave steepening and associated shock phenomena. A program of 80 runs is completed, varying the inflow hydrograph peak Froude number, time to peak, base to peak flow ratio, and the channel cross-sectional shape. It is found that all of the above have a definite effect on kinematic shock development. The size of the wave is mostly responsible for the occurrence or nonoccurrence of the shock. Kinematic waves (as opposed to diffusion waves) are more prone to shock development, as are waves with low base to peak flow ratio. High Froude number flows are more conducive to shock development than low Froude number flows. Wide rectangular channels show a much stronger tendency for shock development than triangular channels. Very narrow channels increase wave diffusion and inhibit shock development.