CHAPTER 15

COMPUTATION OF WATER SURFACE PROFILES

15.1. A wide rectangular river with a bed slope of 14 10-4 carries a discharge of 3.6
m3/s/m`. A dam is built across the river at which the afflux is found to be 1.0 m. Using
the numerical integration method, estimate the water depth at a distance of 500 m
upstream of the dam. Take Manning roughness coefficient, n, as 0.025.
Solution:

q2n2
y 0 =
S0

0.3

(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
=

4
14 10

0.3

= 1.69 m

q 2 3 (3.6) 2
=
= 1 .1 m
g
9.81
Therefore, M1 curve will be formed ahead of the dam. The depth of water at the dam =
1.69 + 1.0 2.7 m. Let yi = 2.7 m and take dl1 = -500 m. Then,
yc =

(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
0.000988
(2.7)10 / 3
y`i =
=
= 0.0012
2
0.81878
(3.6)
1
9.81 (2.7) 3
Assume y`i+1 = y`i
yi+1 = 2.7-0.0012 500 = 2.1 m
0.0014

(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
0.000525
(2.1)10 / 3
=
= 0.000612 . Then,
2
0.857
(3.6)
1
9.81 (2.1) 3

0.0014
y i +1 =

0.0012 + 0.000612
y i +1 = 2.7
500 = 2.247 m
2

Using the new value of yi+1, y`i+1 is evaluated again,

(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
0.000686
(2.247)10 / 3
y i +1 =
=
= 0.000776 , and
2
0.883
(3.6)
1
9.81 (2.247) 3
0.0012 + 0.000923
y i +1 = 2.7
500 = 2.175 m
2

Using the new value of yi+1, y`i+1 is evaluated again,

0.0014

Elementary Hydraulics

(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
0.0014
0.000645
(2.175)10 / 3
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.000736 . Then,
2
0.8769
(3.6)
1
9.81 (2.206) 3
0.0012 + 0.000906
y i +1 = 2.7
500 = 2.2174 m
2

Using the new value of y is reevaluated:

(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
0.0006556
(2.174)10 / 3
=
= 0.000746 . Then,
2
0.8785
(3.6)
1
9.81 (2.216) 3

0.0014
y`i +1 =

0.0012 + 0.000746
y i +1 = 2.7
500 = 2.214 m
2

The depth of water at a distance of 500 m upstream of the dam is 2.174 m. As it can be
seen, this method involves iteration procedure. The use of a computer code is therefore
recommended.
15.2. A wide channel, having a bed slope of 0.01, carries a specific discharge of 5.0 m2/s.
A gate is located in the midway of the channel where the depth of water at the venacontracted section is 0.4 m. Draw the water surface profile and estimate the length of the
rising curve formed after the gate using the numerical integration method. Take n =
0.025.
Solution:

q 2n2
y 0 =
S0

0.3

(5.0) 2 (0.025) 2
=

0.01

0.3

0.015625
=

0.01

0.3

=1.14 m

q2
(5.0) 2
= 3
=1.366 m
g
9.81
Therefore, the channel has a steep bed slope. The water surface profile is shown in the
Figure below. S3 profile will be formed after the gate. It is now required to calculate the
length of S3 curve between y = 0.4 m and y = 1.14 m. Let yi = 0.4 m and take dl1 = 50 m.
yc = 3

262

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

0.015625
(0.4)10 / 3 0.32135
yi ` =
=
= 0.00828
38.82
(5) 2
1
9.81 (0.4) 3
Assume y`i+1 = y`i.
yi+1 = 0.4 + 0.00828 50 = 0.814 m
0.01

0.015625
(0.814)10 / 3 0.02103
y `i +1 =
=
= 0.005646 . Then,
3.725
(5) 2
1
9.81 (0.814) 3
0.01

0.00828 + 0.005646
yi+1 = 0.4 +
50 = 0.612 m
2

Another iteration:
0.015625
0.01
(0.612)10 / 3 0.0703
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.0069 . Then,
10.18
(5) 2
1
9.81 (0.612) 3
0.00828 + 0.0069
yi+1 = 0.4 +
x 50 = 0.78 m
2

Again,
0.015625
(0.78)10 / 3 0.02577
y `i +1 =
=
= 0.0059 . Then,
4.37
(5) 2
1
9.81 x (0.78) 3
0.01

0.00828 + 0.0059
yi+1 = 0.4 +
50 = 0.755 m
2

Another iteration:
0.015625
0.01
(0.755)10 / 3 0.02987
y i +1 =
=
= 0.00607 . Then,
4.9215
(5) 2
1
9.81 (0.755) 3
0.00828 + 0.00607
yi+1 = 0.4 +
50 = 0.759 m
2

Now, we consider that the correct value of yi+1 is 0.76 which is the depth of water after
50 m from the vena-contracted section. Let yi = yi+1 and take dl2 = 70 m.

263

Elementary Hydraulics

0.015625
(0.76)10 / 3 0.029
y`i =
=
= 0.00604 . Then,
4.805
(5) 2
1
9.81 (0.76) 3
yi+1 = 0.76 + 0.00604 70 = 1.183 m
Another iteration:
0.01

0.015625
(1.183)10 / 3 0.001076
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.002 . Then,
0.539
(5) 2
1
9.81 (1.183) 3
0.01

0.00604 0.002
yi+1 = 0.76 +
70 = 0.901 m
2

Another iteration:
0.015625
0.01
(0.901)10 / 3 0.01212
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00488 . Then,
2.484
(5) 2
1
9.81 (0.901) 3
0.00604 0.0048
yi+1 = 0.76 +
70 = 1.142 m
2

Another iteration:
0.015625
0.01
(1.42)10 / 3 0.000037
y `i +1 =
=
= 0.000052 . Then,
0.711
(5) 2
1
9.81 (1.42) 3
0.00604 0.000052
yi+1 = 0.76 +
x 70 = 0.973 m
2

Another iteration:
0.015625
0.01
(0.973)10 / 3 0.0071
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00402 . Then,
1.7665
(5) 2
1
9.81 x (0.973) 3
0.00604 0.00402
yi+1 = 0.76 +
70 = 1.112m
2

264

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Another iteration:
0.015625
(1.112)10 / 3 0.00097
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00114 . Then,
0.8533
(5) 2
1
9.81 (1.112) 3
0.01

0.00604 0.00114
yi+1 = 0.76 +
70 =1.01 m
2

Again,
0.015625
(1.01)10 / 3 0.005115
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00347 . Then,
1.4735
(5) 2
1
9.81 (1.01) 3
0.01

0.00604 0.00347
yi+1 = 0.76 +
70 =1.09 m
2

Repeating the iteration, we get yi+1 = 1.06 m at a distance of 120 m from the venacontracted section. Now, we can get the exact length by extrapolation. A length of 70 m
gives a water rise of 0.3 m (1.06 0.76). Then,
70 x 0.38
dl 2 =
= 88.7 m
0.3
The total length of S3 curve = 50 + 88.7 = 138.7 m 140m.
15.3. A wide channel carrying a discharge of 32 ft3/s/ft` is laid at a slope of 12 10-4. The
channel has a Manning roughness coefficient of 0.018. The channel terminates into a free
over fall at which the depth of flow is equal to 1.1 yc. Determine the depth of flow 400 ft
upstream of the fall using the numerical integration method.
Solution:
q 2n2
y o =
2
(1.49) S 0

0.3

(32) 2 (0.018) 2
=
4
2.22 12 10

0.3

0.149
=
4
12 10

0.3

= 4.25 ft

q 2 3 (32) 2
=
= 3.168 ft
g
32.2
Therefore, the channel has a mild bed slope and M2 curve will be formed before the fall.
Let yi = 1.1, yc = 3.5 ft and take dl1 = -50 ft.
0.149
0.0012
(3.5)10 / 3 0.00109
y`i =
=
= 0.00422
31.8
0.258
1
(3.5) 3
yc = 3

265

Elementary Hydraulics

Assume y`i+1 = y`i, then

yi+1 = 3.5 - 0.00422 (-50) = 3.71 ft
0.149
0.0012
(3.71)10 / 3 0.000685
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00182 . Then,
31.8
0.37726
1
(3.71) 3
0.00422 + 0.00182
y i +1 = 3.5
(50) = 3.65 ft
2

Another iteration:
0.149
0.0012
(3.65)10 / 3 0.00079
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00228 . Then,
31.8
0.346
1
(3.65) 3
0.00422 + 0.00228
y i +1 = 3.5
(50) = 3.66 ft
2

The last value of y is very close to the previous one. Then this is the correct value. Now,
let yi = yi+1 = 3.66 ft na d take dl2 = -100 ft.
yi+1 = 3.66-0.00228 (-100) = 3.89 ft
0.149
0.0012
(3.89)10 / 3 0.000409
y=
=
= 0.0089 . Then,
31.8
0.459
1
(3.89) 3
0.00228 + 0.00089
y`i +1 = 3.66
(100) = 3.818 ft
2

Another iteration:
0.149
(3.818)10 / 3 0.000513
=
= 0.001197 . Then,
31.8
0.4286
1
(3.818) 3

0.0012
y`i +1 =

0.00228 + 0.001197
y i +1 = 3.66
(100) = 3.83 ft
2

This is the correct value for y at a distance of 150 ft upstream the fall. Now, let yi = yi+1
= 3.83 ft and take dl3 = -200 ft.
yi+1 = 3.83-0.001197 (-200) = 4.07 ft.

266

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

0.149
(4.07)10 / 3 0.000184
=
= 0.0003483 . Then,
31.8
0.528
1
(4.07) 3

0.0012
y`i +1 =

0.001197 + 0.0003483
y i +1 = 3.83
(200) = 3.98 ft
2

Another iteration:
0.149
0.0012
(3.95)10 / 3 0.0003294
y`i +1 =
=
= 0.00068
31.8
0.484
1
(3.95) 3
Then,
0.001197 + 0.00068
y i +1 = 3.83
(200) = 4.018 ft
2

Another iteration:
0.149
0.0012
(4.018)10 / 3 0.00024484
y `i +1 =
=
= 0.000048
31.8
0.5098
1
(4.018) 3
Then,
0.001197 + 0.00048
y i +1 = 3.83
(200) = 4.0 ft
2

Therefore, the depth of water at a distance of 350 ft upstream the fall is 4.0 ft.
15.4. A wide rectangular channel under a bed slope of 14 x10-4 carries a discharge of 3.6
m2/s. An afflux of 1.0 m is measured at a dam located downstream of the river.
Determine the distance upstream of the dam where the water depth is 2.2 m. Use the
direct step method and take 1/n = 40.
Solution:
0.3

0.3

q 2n2
(3.6) 2 (0.025) 2
=
y o =
= 1.69 m
4

14 10
S0
Therefore, M1 curve will be formed ahead of the dam. The calculation for the required
distance is given in Table P15.4. The depth of water at the dam = 1.69 + 1.0 2.7 m.
yc = 3

Sf =

q2
=
g

(3.6) 2
= 1 .1 m
9.81

q2n2
y 10 / 3

267

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.4: Calculations for the distance between y = 2.2 m and y = 2.7 m.
y

2.7

0.556

2.716

2.5

0.6

2.518

Sf 10-4
2.955

-0.198

0.652

2.322

0.682

dl

3.397

10.603

-186.7

4.432

9.568

-204.8

5.447

8.552

-114.6

5.043
-0.098

2.2

(So- S f ) 10-4

3.82
-0.196

2.3

S f 10-4

2.224

5.58
L = 506 m

Therefore, the length of M1 curve between y = 2.2 m and y = 2.7 m is 506 m.

15.5. A wide river having a bed slope of 20 cm/km conveys a specific discharge of 4.1
m2/s. A dam is built across the river where the afflux at the dam site is 1.55 m. The Chezy
roughness coefficient is 45 (metric). Find the length of the backwater curve using the
direct step method.
Solution:
y0 = 3

(4.1) 2
q2
=
3
= 3.46 m
C 2 S0
(45) 2 20 10 5

yc = 3

q2
=1.23 m
g

The channel has a mild bed slope and M1 curve will be formed before the dam. The
depth of water at the dam = 3.46 + 1.55 = 5.0 m.
q2
Sf = 2 3
C y
Table P15.5. Calculations for M1 profile.
y

3.5

1.17

3.57

4.0

1.025

4.05

Sf 10-5
19.36

0.48

0.911

4.54

0.82

5.034

dl

16.165

3.835

12516

11.04

8.96

5468

7.875

12.125

4074

9.11
0.494

5.0

(S0- S f ) 10-5

12.97
0.49

4.5

Sf 10-4

6.64
L = 22058 km

Therefore, the length of the M1 curve is 22.058 m

268

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

15.6. A weir is constructed across a wide channel to elevate the water level. The channel
conveys a specific discharge of 3 m2/s and has a Chezy roughness coefficient of 50
(metric). Assuming that the water depth at the weir remains constant at 4.5 m, estimate
the length of the backwater curve using the direct step method for the following two
cases: (a) The bed slope = 5 cm/km, and (b) The bed slope = 10 cm/km.
Solution:

The critical depth does not depend on the channel slope and hence will be constant for the
two cases.
yc = 3

Sf =

q2
=
g

(3) 2
= 0.972 m
9.81

q2
C 2 y3

(a) The bed slope is 5 cm/km, y 01 = 3

q2
=
C 2 S 01

(3) 2 10 5
= 4.16 m
(50) 2 5

The channel has a mild bed slope and M1 profile will be formed. The calculations of the
length of the backwater curve are presented in Table P15.6a.
q2
Sf = 2 3
C y
Table 15.6a: Length of M1 profile (So = 5 cm/km).
y

4.18

0.718

4.206

Sf 10-5
4.929

0.02
4.2

0.714

4.226

0.697

4.325

4.4

0.682

4.424
4.523

0.106

4.694

0.306

dl
18868
32353
15891

4.377

0.623

4.089

0.911

4.226
0.099

0.667

4.894

4.528
0.099

4.5

(So - S f ) 10-5

4.859
0.099

4.3

Sf 10-5

10867

3.951
L = 77,979 m

(b) The bed slope is 10 cm/km, y 02 = 3

q2
=
C 2 S 01

(3) 2 10 5
= 3.30 m
(50) 2 5

The channel has a mild. M1 profile will be formed. The calculations of the length of the
backwater curve for this case are presented in Table P15.6b.

269

Elementary Hydraulics

Table 15.6b: Length of M1 profile (So = 10 cm/km).

3.32

0.904

3.362

3.5

0.857

3.537

Sf 104
9.837

0.175

0.789

3.818

0.732

4.127

4.5

0.667

4.523

dl

9.116

0.884

19796

7.478

2.522

11142

5.892

4.108

7522

4.587

5.413

7135

6.56
0.309

4.1

(So - S f ) 10-5

8.396
0.281

3.8

S f 10-5

5.223
0.396
3.951
L = 45595 m

Therefore, the length of the curve decreased when the slope increased. Shorter profiles
are generally encountered as the bed slope increases.
15.7. A wide rectangular channel has a bed slope of 8 cm/km and carries a discharge of
1.5 m3/s/m`. The channel terminates into a sudden fall. Determine the length of the water
profile, assuming a critical depth at the sudden fall. Take the Chezy coefficient as 40
(metric).
Solution:
y0 = 3

q2
=
C 2 So

(1.5) 2 10 5
q 2 3 (1.5) 2
3
=
2
.
6
m
and
y
=
=
= 0.612 m
c
g
9.81
(40) 2 8

The channel has mild bed slope and M2 will be formed before the free fall. It is required
to evaluate the length of the M2 profile between yc = y1 = 0.612 m and yo = y5 = 2.6 m.
Consider three other depths y2 = 1.0 m, y3 = 1.5 m, and y4 = 2.0 m. Table P15.7 is
developed to calculate the required length.
Table P15.7: Calculation of the length of M2 profile.
y

0.612

2.45

0.92

1.0

1.5

1.15

1.5

1.0

1.55

Sf 10-5
6.13

0.23

2.03

0.577

2.63

3.635

-3.555

-63.3

0.913

-0.833

-480.2

0.296

-0.216

-2222.2

0.128

-0.048

-12500

0.176
0.60

2.6

dl

0.416
0.48

0.75

(So- S f 10-3)

1.41
0.40

2.0

S f 10-3

0.08
L = -15265.7 m

The total length of M2 profile is 15.265 km. The length of the profile stretches when the
flow approaches the normal depth.

270

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

15.8. A triangular channel with a bed slope of 20 cm/km and a side slope of 1:1 carries a
discharge of 0.6 m3/s. The Chezy coefficient is 50 (metric) and the channel ends with a
sudden fall. Determine the normal and the critical depths. Hence, find the length of the
water profile if the flow has a critical depth at the fall.
Solution:
Q = AC RS o

y
y 02 x 50 0 ( 20 10 5 )1 / 2
2.83
5/2
(yo) = 1.427, or yo = 1.153 m

0.6 =

The critical depth is calculated from the equation of critical flow condition.
Q
g

y c2
y5/ 2
= c
2 yc
2

= y c2

0 .6
9.81

y c5 / 2
2

. Hence, yc = (0.27)2/5 = 0.59 m.

The channel has a mild bed slope and the M2 profile will be formed. Let y1 = 0.59, y2 =
0.7, y3 = 1.0, and y4 = 1.153 m. Table P15.8 is developed to estimate the length of M2.
The slope of the total energy line, Sf, in the above table is calculated from the Chezy
equation which, for this case, can be expressed as
V2
Sf =
(29.7) 2 y
Table P15.8: Calculations of the length of the M2 profile in the triangular section.
y

0.59

0.348

1.724

0.742

0.70

0.49

1.22

0.776

1.00

1.00

0.60

1.01

Sf 10-3
5.7

0.034

1.163

4.05

-3.85

-8.83

1.40

-1.20

-195.0

0.303

-0.103

-1485.44

0.407
0.153

0.451

(So- S f) 10-3 dl

2.4
0.234

1.153 1.33

S f 10-3

0.20
L = -1689.27 m

The total length of M2 profile is 1.689 km.

15.9. A wide channel having a bed slope of 20 cm/km carries a specific discharge of 2.2
m2/s. A gate is located along the channel where the depth of flow at the vena-contracted
section is 0.1 m. Determine whether a hydraulic jump will be formed after the gate or not.
At what distance will the jump be formed downstream the gate? Take the Manning
roughness coefficient as 0.02 (metric).

271

Elementary Hydraulics

Solution:

q2n2
y 0 =
So

0.3

(2.2) 2 (0.02) 2
=
5
20 10

0.3

= 1.98 m

q 2 3 ( 2 .2 ) 2
yc =
=
= 0.79 m
g
9.81
The channel has a mild bed slope. A hydraulic jump will be formed if the conjugate depth
to the normal depth is greater than the vena-contracted depth (0.1 m). Knowing the high
stage depth of the jump (y = 1.98 m), the low stage depth is calculated as
3

y1 =

y2
2

8q 2
1
1

+
+

3
gy 2

1.98
8(2.2) 2
1
1
=

+
+

9.81(1.98) 3
2

= 0.23 m

M3 profile will be formed through which the depth of flow increases from 0.1 m to 0.23
m. Let y1 = 0.1, y2 = 0.14, y3 = 0.18, and y4 = 0.23 m. Table P15.9 is developed to
calculate the length of M3.
Table P15.9: Calculations of the length of M3.
y
0.1

V
22

E
24.8

Sf 10-4
4.17

-12.1
0.14

15.7

12.7

12.2

7.77

9.56

dl

2.765

-2.7648

4.38

0.973

-0.9728

5.07

0.423

-0.4228

7.36

0.586
-3.11

0.23

(So- S f) 10-4

1.36
-4.93

0.18

S f 10-4

4.66

0.259
L = 16.81 m

The length of M3 is 16.8 m after which the jump will be located.

15.10. A trapezoidal channel having a bed slope of 15 cm/km conveys water at a rate of
12.0 m3/s. The channel has a bed width of 6.0 m and a side slope of 2:1. The Chezy
coefficient is 40 (metric). A dam is built across the channel at which the water depth is
3.2 m. Sketch the water surface profile and estimate its length.
Solution:
Q = AC RS o

12.0 = (6yo + 2 y o2 )40

24.5 = (6yo + 2 y o2 )

(6 y o + 2 y o2 )
6 + 2 yo 1 + 4

(15 10 5 )1 / 2

(6 y o + 2 y 02
6 + 4.47 y o

272

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Solving by trial and error, we get yo = 2.065 m. The critical depth is obtained from the
critical flow condition as follows:
Q

=A

A
. Hence,
B

12.0

= 3.83 = (6 y c + 2 y c2 )

(6 y

9.81
g
Solving by trial and error, we get yc = 0.685 m.

+ 2 y c2 )
6 + 4 yc
c

The normal depth, yo, is greater than the critical depth, yc. Therefore, the channel has a
mild bed slope and M1 profile will be formed before the dam. To calculate the length of
the profile, let y1 = 3.2, y2 = 3.0, y3 = 2.6, and y4 = 2.1 m. Table P15.10 is then developed.
Table P15.10. Calculations of the length of M1 profile.
y

3.2

39.68

20.3

1.95

0.302

3.205

3.0

36.0

19.41

1.85

0.333

3.005

Sf x 10-5

17.62

1.65

0.412

2.609

21.42

15.39

1.39

0.560

3.335

11.665

-1714

5.09

9.91

-3996

10.265

4.735

-10412

6.43
-0.493

2.1

dl

3.75
-0.396

29.12

(So- S f)
x 10-5

2.92
-0.20

2.6

S f-10-5

2.116

14.1
L = -16122 m

The total length of M1 profile is 16.122 km. The profile is presented below. The student
is advised to resolve this problem with either different or more depth intervals and
compare the results.

15.11. In Problem 15.10, calculate the depth of flow at a distance of 8.0 km upstream of
the dam.
Solution:

Referring to Table P14.8, at a distance of 1714 + 3996 = 5710 m the depth of flow is 2.6
m. This means that we need to assume a depth interval that would result in a distance of
8000 5710 = 2290 m. One may also assume that the depth at the required point is 2.4 m
and calculate the length of the profile between y = 2.6 m and y = 2.4 m. The calculations
are given in Table P15.11 in which the first two steps are acquired from Table P15.10.

273

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.11. Calculations for the depth at a distance of 8 km from the dam.
y

3.2

39.68

20.3

1.95 0.302 3.205

3.0

36.0

19.41

1.85 0.333 3.005

Sf x 10-5

17.62

1.65 0.412 2.609

25.92

16.73

3.335

11.665

-1714

5.09

9.91

-3996

7.535

7.465

-2652

6.43
-0.198

2.4

dl

3.75
-0.396

29.12

(So- S f)x 10-5

2.92
-0.20

2.6

S f x 10-5

1.55 0.463 2.411

8.64
L = -8362 m

Therefore, the depth of 2.4 m is located at a distance of 8.362 km upstream of the dam.
This means that at a distance of 8.0 km, the water depth will be slightly bigger than 2.4
m. One may also interpolate to get the required depth as follows:
0.2 x 2290
= 0.173 m
2652
The required depth = 2.6 0.173 2.43 m.
dy 4 =

15.12. A wide channel having a bed slope of 0.045 and the Manning roughness
coefficient of 0.025 carries a discharge of 2.0 m3/s. A dam is built across the channel at
which the depth of water is 1.6 m. Draw the water surface profile and estimate the
distance between the dam and the high stage depth of the formed hydraulic jump.
Solution: The normal and critical depths are calculated first.

q2n2
y 0
So
yc = 3

0.3

(2.0) 2 (0.0025) 2
=

0.045

0.3

= 0.42 m

q2 3 4
=
= 0.74 m
g
9.81

The channel has a steep bed slope. Since the water depth at the dam is 1.6 m, then a
hydraulic jump will be formed. The high stage depth of the jump, y2, can be calculated as
follow.

0.42
8(2) 2
y2 =
1
1

+
+
= 1.2 m

2
9.81(0.42) 3
S1 profile will be formed after the jump, through which the water depth will increase
from 1.2 m to 1.6 m as shown in the Figure. Table P15.12 is developed to calculate the
length of S1.

274

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Table P15.12: Calculations of the length of S1 profile.

y
1.6

V
1.25

E
1.68

Sf x 10-5
52.18

-0.09
1.5

1.33

1.59

1.43

1.504

1.3

1.54

1.421

1.2

1.67

1.342

(So- S f)x 10-3

dl

58.285

44.4

-2.03

73.0

44.27

-1.94

93.04

44.07

-1.88

120.58

43.79

-1.8

64.39
-0.86

1.4

S fx10-5

81.61
-0.083
104.47
-0.079
136.69
L = -7.68 m

The total length of the S1 profile

(distance between the dam and the
high stage depth of the hydraulic
jump) is 7.68 m. This length is
relatively short as the channel has a
very steep bed slope. One may
always note that the steeper the bed
slope the shorter the length of the
water surface profile.
15.13. A wide rectangular channel carries a discharge of 2.5 m3/s has a bed slope of 0.008
and a Manning roughness coefficient of 0.025. At a certain point the bed slope changes to
become 0.05. Sketch the water surface and estimate the length of the water profile.
Solution: The normal depths for the two reaches and the critical depth are calculated.

(2.5) 2 (0.025) 2
y 01 =

0.008

0.3

= 0.81 m , and y 02

( 2.5) 2 (0.025) 2
=

0.05

0. 3

= 0.465m

q 2 3 (2.5) 2
=
= 0.86 m
g
9.81
Therefore, the channel has a steep bed slope; the second reach is steeper than the first. An
S2 curve will form in the second reach as shown in the Figure below. The bed slope of
the second reach (0.05), where the entire profile is located, will be considered in the
calculations of the length of S2 as shown in Table P15.13.
yc = 3

275

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.13: Calculations for the length of the S2 profile.

y

0.81

3.09

1.297

Sf x 10-3

S f x 10-3

3.57

1.35

0.6

4.17

1.486

0.5

5.00

1.774

1.34

17.145

32.855

4.14

30.425

19.515

14.71

44.795

13.205

12.57

39.37
0.166

1.94

39.467

21.48
0.288

5.38

10.355
12.81

0.136

0.465

dl

4.17
0.053

0.7

(So- S f) x 10-3

50.22
L = 32.76 m

The length of S2 profile is about 33 m.

15.14. A trapezoidal channel with a bed width of 2.0 m and a side slope of 3:2 carries a
discharge of 300,000 m3/d. The channel has a bed slope of 12 x 105 and a Manning
roughness coefficient of 0.018. At a certain point the bed slope increases to 20 x 10-3.
Draw the water surface profile and determine the length of the water profiles in the two
reaches.
Solution:
Q=

300000
= 3.472 m 3 / s
24 x 60 x 60

1
1 by 0 + ty 02
Q = A R 2 / 3 S 01 / 2 = (by 0 + ty 02 )
n
n b + 2 y 1 + t 2
2
1 by 01 + ty 01
2
3.472 = (by 01 + ty 01
)

0.018 b + 2 y 01 1 + t 2

2/3

S 01 / 2

2/3

(12 x 10 5 )1 / 2

Solving by trial and error, we get y01 = 1.5 m. The normal depth in the second reach is
calculated as follows:

by + ty 2
2
02
02
0.442 = by 02 + ty 02
)
b + 2 y 02 1 + t 2

2/3

Solving by trial and error, we get yo2 = 0.39 m. The critical depth can be calculated as
Q
A
=A
B
g
2 y c + 1.5 y c2
2 + 3 yc
9.81
Solving by trial and error, get yc = 0.58 m.
3.472

= 1.1085 = (2 y c + 1.5 y c2 )

276

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Therefore, the first reach has a mild bed slope while the second one has a steep bed slope.
Figure P15.14 presents the water surface profile along the channel length. The M2 and S2
falling profiles will be formed in the first and second reaches, respectively. To calculate
the length of the M2 and S2 profiles, Tables P15.14a and P15.14b are developed.
Table P15.14a. Calculations of the length of M2 profile.

0.58

1.665

4.1

.406

2.09

0.803

Sf x 10-5

2.34

4.71

.497

1.48

0.862

1.00

3.50

5.61

.624

0.99

1.05

1.25

4.844

6.51

.744

0.717

1.28

1.50

6.375

7.41

.860

0.545

1.515

(So- S f)
x 10-5

dl

325.5

-313.5

-18.82

119.8

-107.8

-174.40

42.15

-30.15

-762.85

18.25

-6.25

-3760.0

471
.059

0.75

S f-10-5

180
.188
59.6
.230
24.7
.235
11.8

L = -4716.07 m
Table P15.14b. Calculations of the length of S2 profile.

0.58

1.665

4.1

.406

2.09

0.803

Sf x 10-5

1.375

3.81

.361

2.53

0.826

0.45

1.204

3.62

.333

2.88

0.872

0.39

1.084

3.41

.318

3.20

0.912

(So- S f)
x 10-5

dl

639

13.61

1.69

986

10.14

4.54

1346

6.54

6.12

471
0.023

0.50

S f-10-5

807
0.046
1164
0.040
1528

L = 12.35 m

The length of M2 profile is about 4716 m and the length of the S2 profile is 12.35 m. One
may note that S type profiles are generally much shorter than M type profiles. The total
length of the two profiles is 4728.35 m or about 4730 m.

277

Elementary Hydraulics

15.15. Water is issued into a wide rectangular channel from a large reservoir where the
water level is 6.0 m above the channel bed. The channel has a bed slope of 0.01 and a
Manning roughness coefficient of 0.021 (metric). Draw the water surface profile and
estimate the length of the water profile formed after the channel inlet.
Solution: For wide channels, E = 3/2 yc = 6.0 m. Hence, yc = 4.0 m
yc = 3

q2
. Hence, q2 = g yc3, Therefore, q = 25.06 m2/s.
g

yo = (

25.06 2 x 0.0212 0.3

) = 2.7 m.
0.01

yo is less than yc. The channel has a

steep bed slope. The water surface
profile is presented here. To calculate
the length of S2 profile, Table P15.15
is developed.

Table P15.15: Calculations for the length of the S2 profile.

y

4.0

6.27

6.0

3.7

6.77

6.04

Sf x 10-3

6.33

9.28

7.09

3.13

6.87

5.8

4.63

5.37

54

7.86

2.14

355

5.73
0.76

2.7

dl

3.53
0.29

7.83

(So- S f) x 10-3

2.73
0.04

3.2

S f x 10-3

10
414.8 m

The total length of S2 profile is 414.8 m.

15.16. A specific discharge of 2.1 m2/s is issued into a wide channel through a sluice gate
where the depth of flow at the vena-contracted section is 0.2 m. The channel has a bed
slope of 8 x 10-4 and a Chezy coefficient of 40 (metric). Determine whether a hydraulic
jump will be formed or not? What is the minimum length of the concrete apron required
after the gate to contain the jump assuming that the length of the jump is seven times its
height?
Solution:

(2.1) 2
(2.1) 2
3
yo =
= 1.51 m , and y c =
= 0.766 m
9.81
(40) 2 8 x 10 4
The low stage depth of the jump is given as;
3

278

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

8(2.1) 2
= 0.33 m
1 +
9.81(1.51) 3

Therefore, a hydraulic jump with a height of 1.51 - 0.33 = 1.18 will be formed and an M3
profile will be encountered before the jump. It should be noted that if yo1 is found less
than the depth of flow at the vena contracted section, then the gate will be submerged and
no jump will be formed. Table P15.16 is developed to calculate the length of M3.
1.51
y 01 =
2

Table P15.16: Calculations for the length of M3 profile.

0.20

10.5

5.82

Sf x 10-3

8.4

3.85

7.0

2.80

0.33

6.36

2.39

dl

434.5

-433.7

4.54

216.25

-215.45

4.87

131.65

130.85

3.13

280
-1.05

0.30

(So- S f) x 10-3

589
-1.97

0.25

S f x 10-3

152.5
-0.41
110.8
L = 12.54 m

The length of the M3 profile is 12.54 m. The minimum length of the concrete apron =
12.54 + 7 x 1.18 = 20.8 m 21.0 m.
15.17. A wide rectangular channel having a bed slope of 4.85 x 10-3 carries a discharge of
2.5 m3/s. The Chezy roughness coefficient is 45 (metric). A dam is built across the
channel at which the depth of water is measured as 1.8 m. Draw the water surface profile
and estimate the length of the backwater curve.
Solution: The normal and the critical depths are calculated first.

y0 = 3

q2
(2.5) 2
3
=
= 0.86 m
C 2 S0
(45) 2 4.85 x 10 3

yc = 3

q2
=
g

( 2 .5) 2
= 0 .86 m
9.81

The channel has a critical bed slope and C1 profile will be formed before the dam. The
water surface profile is presented below. The calculations for the length of C1 are given
in Table P15.17.

279

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.17: Calculations for the length of C1 profile.

y

1.8

1.39

1.9

1.5

1.67

1.64

Sf x 10-5

1.42

2.91

72.4

412.6

-63.0

134.9

350.1

-62.8

331.5

153.5

-84.7

178
-0.13

0.86

dl

91.8
-0.22

2.08

(So- S f) x 10-5

53
-0.26

1.2

S f x 10-5

1.29

485
L = -210.5 m

The total length of the C1 profile (backwater curve) is about 211 m.

15.18. A rectangular channel with a bed width of 6.0 ft and a water depth of 4.0 ft
conveys a discharge of 30 ft3/s. Determine the bed slope assuming the Manning
roughness coefficient n = 0.025. At a certain point along the channel, the bed slope is
reduced such that the normal depth is increased to 6.0 ft. Draw the water surface profile
and estimate the distance through which the depth of flow varies.
Solution:

1.49 2 / 3 1 / 2
R S 01
n
2/3
1.49 24
1/ 2
30 = 24 x
S 01
0.025 14
Therefore, S01 = 21.4 x 10-5. The critical depth can be calculated as
Q= A

yc = 3

q2
=
g

(5) 2
= 0.92 ft
32.2

Since the critical depth is less than the normal depth, the bed slope is mild. M1 curve will
be formed in the first reach as shown in the figure below. Table P15.18 provides the
calculations for the length of M1 curve. The slope of the total energy line, Sf, in that
Table is given as
V2
Sf =
3552.16 R 4 / 3

280

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Table P15.18: Calculations for the length of M1 curve.

6.0

36

18

2.0

0.833

6.01

5.5

33

17

1.94

0.909

5.513

Sf x 10-5

16

1.875

1.00

dl

8.68

11.82

-4204.7

10.895

9.605

-5174.4

14.01

6.49

-7642.5

18.67

1.83

9.61
-0.497

30

(So- S f)
x 10-5

7.75
-0.497

5.0

S f x 10-5

5.016

12.18
-0.496

4.5

27

15

1.80

1.11

4.52

15.84

4.0

24

14

1.71

1.25

4.024

-0.496
21.5

27103.8
L = -44125.4 ft

Therefore, the length of the gradually varied flow reach is 44125 ft.
15.19. A trapezoidal channel has a bed width of 4.0 ft, a side slope of 2:1 and a bed slope
of 12 x 10-4. The channel carries a discharge of 90 ft3/s and its Manning roughness
coefficient, n, is 0.021. A dam is built across the channel where the heading up (afflux) is
2.22 ft. Determine the depth of flow 1500 ft upstream of the dam. What is the total length
of the profile?
Solution:

1.49 by 0 + ty 02
Q = (by 0 + ty 02 )
n b + 2 y 0 1 + t 2

1.49 4 y 0 + 2 y 02
90 = (4 y 0 + 2 y )
0.021 4 + 2 y o 5

2/3
1/ 2
S 01

2/3

2
0

(12 x 10 4 )1 / 2

Solving by trial and error, we get yo = 2.78 ft. The critical depth is obtained from the
critical flow condition:
2
A
2 4 yc + 2 yc
=A
. Hence, 36.617 = (4 y c + 2 y c )
B
g
4 + 4 yc

90
32.2

= 15.86 = (4 y c + 2 y c2 )

1/ 2

4 y c + 2 y c2
4 + 4 yc

Solving by trial and error, we get yc = 1.85 ft.

Therefore, the normal depth is bigger than the critical depth and the channel has a mild
bed slope. M1 curve will be formed before the dam. The depth of flow at the dam is: y1 =
2.78 + 2.22 = 5.0 ft. To calculate the depth at a distance of 2500 ft upstream of the dam,
Table P15.19 is developed.

281

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.19: Calculations for the water surface profile.

y

5.0

70.0

4.5

58.5

26.36 2.66

1.29

5.026

24.12 2.43

1.54

4.537

Sf x 10-6

21.89 2.19

1.88

4.055

38.5

19.65 1.96

2.34

3.586

3.0

30.0

17.42 1.72

3.00

3.141

-451.5

194.9

100.5

-479.6

344.6

85.5

-548.5

655.6

54.4

-818.0

1033.8

166

-1090.3

867.6
-0.181

3.39

108.3

443.5
-0.445

2.78 26.58 16.43 1.62

116.95

245.6
-0.469

3.5

dl

144.2
-0.482

48.0

(So- S f)
x 10-6

89.7
-0.489

4.0

S f x 10-6

2.96

1200
L = -3387.9 ft

The first three steps give a distance of 1479.6 ft measured upstream of the dam.
Therefore, the depth at a distance of 1500 ft from the dam is about 3.5 ft. The total length
of the M1 profile is 3388 ft.
15.20. A 12.0 m rectangular channel, having a bed slope of 50 cm/km and a Manning
roughness coefficient of 0.015, conveys water at a normal depth of 1.0 m. A dam is built
across the channel at which the water depth is 2.0 m. Calculate the depth of flow 2.0 km
upstream of the dam using the step by step method.
Solution:

Q=

1
x 12.0(0.857) 2 / 3 (50 x 10 5 )1 / 2 = 16.14 m 3 / s
0.015

Q 16.14
q2
(1.345) 2
2/ s
3
3
=
= 0.57 m
q= =
= 1.345 m . Hence, y c =
g
9.81
b 12.0
Therefore, the channel has a mild bed slope and M1 curve will be formed before the dam.
To calculate the depth of flow at a distance of 2.0 km upstream the dam, Table P15.20 is
developed.
Table P15.20: Calculations for the depth of flow 2.0 km upstream a dam using the step by step
method.
y

2.0

24.0 16.0

1.5

0.673

2.023

Sf x 10-4

19.2 15.2

1.26

0.841

1.636

15.6 14.6

1.06

1.035

1.355

1.2

14.4 14.4

1.00

1.12

1.264

dl

0.88

4.12

-939.25

1.68

3.31

-848.50

2.52

2.48

-366.35

1.17
-0.281

1.3

(So- S f)
x 10-4

0.59
-0.387

1.6

S f x 10-4

2.20
-0.091
2.82
L = -2154.1 m

282

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

From the last depth interval in the above table we deduce that dy of 0.1 m gives a length
of 366.35 m. Assuming a linear relationship between the values of dy and dl, then the
required value of dy for the last interval can be calculated as:
0.1 x (200 939.25 848.50)
= 0.058 m 0.06 m
366.35
Therefore, the depth of flow at a distance of 2.0 km upstream the dam = 1.3 0.06 = 1.24 m.
dy =

15.21. A trapezoidal channel of a bed width of 7.0 m and a side slope of 3:2 is laid on a
slope of 0.001 and carries a discharge of 30.0 m3/s. The channel terminates to a free fall
at which the depth is reduced to the critical depth. If the Manning roughness coefficient is
0.02, compute and plot the flow profile upstream from the over fall to a section where the
water depth is 0.9 yo. Use the step by step method.
Solution:
1 7 y 0 + 1.5 y 02
Q = 30.0 = (7 y 0 + 1.5 y )

n 7.0 + 3.6056 y 0
2
0

2/3

(0.001)1 / 2

(7.0 y 0 + 1.5 y 02 ) 5 / 3
18.973 =
(7 + 3.6056 y 0 ) 2 / 3
Solving by trial and error, we get yo = 1.71 m. Then 0.9 yo = 1.539 m. The critical depth
is calculated from the equation of the critical flow:
Q2B
(30) 2 (7.0 + 3 y )
=
1
.
Hence,
=1
2
gA3
9.81(7.0 y c + 1.5 y c ) 3
Solving by trial and error, we get yc = 1.132 m. The channel has a mild bed slope and an
M2 falling profile will be formed before the sudden fall. Table P15.21 presents the
calculations for the length of the M2 profile using the step by step method.
Table P15.21: Calculations for the length of M2 profile using the step be step method.
y
1.13

A
9.845

P
11.07

R
0.889

V
3.05

1.604

Sf x
10--4

10.03

11.15

0.900

2.99

1.606

1.20

10.56

11.33

0.932

2.84

1.611

1.25

11.09

11.51

0.964

2.71

1.624

1.30

11.64

11.69

0.995

2.58

1.640

1.40

12.74

12.05

1.057

2.35

1.681

1.54

14.33

12.55

1.142

2.09

1.763

10-4

43
0.002

1.15

S f x 10-4 (So- S f) x dl
42

-32

-0.63

38

-28

-1.78

32.5

-22.5

-5.78

28

-18

-8.89

24

-14

-29.29

17.5

-7.5

-113.89

41
0.005
35
0.013
30
0.016
26
0.041
20
0.082
15

L = -160.26 m

283

Elementary Hydraulics

The total length of the profile is about 160 m. A better accuracy can be achieved if
smaller dy intervals are taken as the flow approaches the normal depth rather than as the
flow approaches the sudden fall (or the critical depth).
15.22. The flow in a very wide channel tends to a free fall at which the depth is reduced
to 0.67 times the normal depth. The channel conveys a specific discharge of 4 m3/s and
has a bed slope of 10 cm/km. Estimate the distance upstream of the fall where the water
depth is 0.9 the normal depth. Take Manning coefficient, n, as 0.025 and use the step by
step method.
Solution:
The normal and critical depths are calculated first as follows:
0.3

0.3

q2n2
(4) 2 (0.025) 2
q2
(4) 2
3
3
y
=
=
= 1.177 m
=

y 0 =
=
3
.
981
m
and
c

g
9.81
10 5

S0
The channel has a mild bed slope and an M2 profile will be formed. The depth at the fall
is 0.67 times the normal depth = 2.667 m. The calculations for the profile length between
y = 2.667 m and y = 0.9 yo = 3.582 m are given in Table P15.22.
Table P15.22: Calculations for the length of M2 profile.
y

2.667

1.5

2.782

2.90

1.379

3.00

3.20

1.25

3.28

Sf x 10--4

3.34

-2.34

-931.6

2.475

-1.45

-1931

1.745

-0.745

-4912.7

2.07
0.366

3.646

dl

2.88
0.280

1.117

(So- S f) x 10-4

3.8
0.218

3.582

S f x 10-4

1.42
L = -7775.3 m

The length of the M2 profile between the two given depths is about 7775 m.
15.23. A broad-crested weir is located in a 40 m wide rectangular channel, as shown in
Figure 14.P9. The channel conveys a discharge of 500 m3/s under a bed slope of 1.8x10-3.
The Manning roughness coefficient, n, is 0.032. The sill height of the weir is 2.0 m. The
weir discharge is given as:

Q = 1.705 CdBh3/2
Where B is the weir width, Cd is the discharge coefficient = 0.86, and h is the water head
above the weir. Determine the length of the backwater curve using the step-by-step
method.
Solution:
The normal and the critical depths are evaluated first.

1
1 40 y 0

q = y 0 R 2 / 3 S 01 / 2 . Hence, 12.5 = y 0
n
0.032 40 + 2 y 0

284

2/3

(1.8 x 10 3 )1 / 2

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

2/3

40 y 0

9.428 = y 0
+
y
40
2
0

Solving by trial and error, get yo = 4.14 m

q 2 3 (12.5) 2
=
= 2.516 m
g
9.81
Therefore, the channel has a mild bed slope and an M1 curve will be formed. The water
head over the weir is deduced from:
yc = 3

q = 1.705 Cd h3/2. Then, 12.5 = 1.705 x 0.86 h3/2

h = (8.5248)2/3 = 4.17 m
The depth of flow at the weir = 2.0 + 4.17 = 6.17 m
M1 profile will therefore be formed before the weir. The calculations for the profile
length are tabulated in Table P15.23.
Table P15.23: Calculations for the backwater curve.
y

6.17

246.8

52.32

4.717

2.03

6.38

Sf x 10--4

220

51.0

4.314

2.27

5.76

5.00

200

50.0

4.00

2.50

5.32

4.50

180

49.0

3.673

2.78

4.89

4.15

166

48.3

3.437

3.01

4.61

(So- S f)
x 10-4

dl

6.42

11.58

-535.4

8.80

9.2

-478.3

12.02

5.98

-719.1

15.93

2.07

-1352.7

5.33
-0.62

5.50

S f x 10-4

7.51
-0.44
10.08
-0.43
13.96
-0.28
17.89

L = -3085.5 m

The total length of the backwater curve is 3085.5 m.

15.24. Considering the data given in Problem 15.3, estimate the length of M2 profile
using the step-by-step method.
Solution:

It is required to calculate the length of the M2 profile between y = 4.25 ft and y = 3.5 ft.
The slope of the total energy line is estimated from;
V 2n2
Sf =
2.22 y 4 / 3
The calculations are presented in Table P15.24. The total length of M2 curve is 2190 ft.

285

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.24: Calculations for the length of M2 profile.

y

3.5

9.14

4.8

3.8

8.42

4.9

Sf x 10-3

dl

2.0175

-8.175

-122.3

1.608

-4.08

-245.1

1.3605

-1.605

-623.0

1.225

-0.25

-1200

1.745
0.1

8.0

(So- S f) x 10-4

2.29
0.1

4.0

S f x 10-3

5.0

1.471
0.1

4.2

7.62

5.1

1.25

4.25

7.53

5.13

0.03
1.2

L = -2190.4 ft

15.25. A trapezoidal channel with a bed slope of 18x10-5 and a side slope of 2:1 carries a
discharge of 600 ft3/s. The channel has a best hydraulic section and terminates into a free
over fall. Determine the water depth 2750ft upstream of the fall using the step-by-step
method. Take the Manning roughness coefficient as 0.025 and assume a critical depth at
the fall.
b + 2ty
Solution: For the best hydraulic section,
= y 1+ t 2
2

b + 4y = 4.472y, or b = 0.472y. Also R = y/2

1
Q = A R 2 / 3 S 01 / 2
n
1.49 y 0
600 = (by 0 + ty )

0.025 2
2
0

2/3

(18 x 10 5 )1 / 2

2/3

y
750.36 = 2.472 y 0
2
3/8
yo = (481.85) = 10.14 ft, and b = 4.79 ft
Q
A
=A
The critical depth is calculated from:
B
g
2
0

(4.79 y c + 2 y c2 )

(4.79 y

+ 2 y c2 )
=105.736
4.79 + 4 y c
c

Solving by trial and error, we get yc = 4.57 m.

Then the channel has a mild bed slope and an M2 profile will be formed as the flow
approaches the free over fall. To determine the water depth at a distance of 2750 ft
upstream of the fall Table P15.25 is developed. The depth of water at a distance of 2750
ft is around 8.2 ft.

286

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Table P15.25: Computations for the water depth at a distance of 2750 ft upstream of the fall.
y
4.5

A
63.66

25.22

2.52

V
9.42

Sf x
10-3

Sf x E
10

(So- S f)
x 10-3

Dl

0.02

-6.67

-3

-3

0.06

-5.47

-10.96

-13.96

0.53

-3.32

-159.64

-173.6

0.77

-1.41

-546.1

-719.7

0.88

-0.619

-1421.6

-2141.3

0.18

-0.347

-518.7

-2660

-3

7.28

5.94
6.85

4.7

66.69

25.81

2.58

9.0

6.43

5.0

73.95

27.15

2.72

8.11

4.87

6.0

100.7

31.62

3.18

5.95

2.13

7.0

131.5

36.09

3.64

4.56

1.04

8.0

166.3

40.57

4.10

3.61

0.558

8.2

173.7

41.46

4.19

3.45

0.496

5.96
5.65
6.02
3.50
6.55
1.59
7.32
0.799
8.20
0.527
8.38

15.26. A trapezoidal channel of 2.5 m bed width and 1:1 side slope has a bed slope of
0.0045. Under the normal conditions the depth of flow is equal to the critical depth,
which is 0.9 m. A gate is located in the midway of the channel length. The depth of water
just upstream of the gate is 1.4 m. Determine the length of the backwater curve using the
step-by-step method. Take the Chezy roughness coefficient, C, as 45 (metric).
Solution:
Since the depth of flow under the normal conditions is equal to the critical depth, then the
channel has a critical bed slope. C1 rising curve will be formed before the gate.
A
Q = AC RS 0 , A = 3.06 m2, R = = 0.60647 m
P
Q = 3.06 x 45 0.60647 x 0.0045 = 7.19 m 3 / s

The length of the curve will be calculated between y = 0.92 m and y = 1.4 m. The
calculations are presented in Table P15.26.
Table P15.26: Calculations for the length of C1 profile.
y

1.4

5.46

6.46

.845

1.32

1.489

1.2

4.44

5.89

0.754

1.62

1.334

1.0

3.5

5.33

.657

2.05

1.214

0.92

3.146

5.10

.617

2.285

1.186

Sf x 10-3

S f x 10-3

(So- S f)
x 10-3

dl

1.369

3.131

-49.5

2.439

2.061

-58.2

3.669

0.831

-33.7

1.018
-0.155
1.719
-0.120
3.159
-0.028
4.179

L = -141.4 m

287

Elementary Hydraulics

15.27. A trapezoidal channel with a side slope of 1:1 and a bed width of 3.0 m is
comprised of two reaches with bed slopes of 0.0004 and 0.03, respectively. The channel
has a Chezy roughness coefficient of 55 (metric) and coveys a discharge of 12.0m3/s.
Determine the length of the gradually varied flow reach in this channel.
Solution: The normal depths in the two reaches of the channel are determined from the
discharge equation:

3 y 0 + y o2
x ( S 0 )1 / 2
Q = AC RS 0 . Hence, 12 = (3 y 0 + y 02 ) x 55 x
2
.
828
b
y
+
0

Substituting for So by 0.0004 and 0.03, and solving by trial and error, we get yo1 = 2.02 m
and yo2 = 0.55m, respectively. The critical depth is calculated as
Q

3 y c + y c2
3 + 2 yc

3.831 = (3 y c + y c2 )

g
Solving by trial and error, get yc = 1.02 m

The first reach has a mild bed slope while the second one has a steep bed slope. The
gradually varied flow reach comprises M2 and S2 profiles. The lengths of the two
profiles are calculated as given in Tables P15.27a and P15.27b, respectively.
Table P14.27a: Calculations for the length of the M2 profile, So = 0.0004.
y

1.02

4.1

5.885

0.697

2.927

1.457

Sf x 10-3

5.04

6.394

0.788

2.381

1.489

1.4

6.16

6.96

0.885

1.948

1.593

1.6

7.36

7.525

0.978

1.63

1.735

1.8

8.64

8.09

1.068

1.389

1.898

2.0

10.0

8.656

1.155

1.20

2.073

(So- S f)x 10-3

dl

3.22

-2.82

-11.35

1.898

-1.498

-69.43

1.157

-1.17

-121.37

0.747

-0.347

-469.74

0.504

-0.104

-1682.69

4.063
0.032

1.2

S f x 10-3

2.378
0.104
1.417
0.142
0.898
0.163
0.597
0.175
0.41

L = -2354.58 m
Table P15.27b: Calculations for the length of the S2 profile, So = 0.03.
y

1.02

4.1

5.885

0.697

2.927

1.457

Sf x 10-3

3.04

5.26

0.578

3.947

1.594

0.60

2.16

4.697

0.460

5.556

2.173

0.56

1.994

4.584

0.435

6.018

2.406

(So- S f) x 10-3

dl

6.487

23.513

583

15.545

14.455

40.06

24.85

5.15

45.24

4.063
0.137

0.80

S f x 10-3

8.91
0.579
22.18
0.233
27.52

L = 91.13 m

The total length of the gradually varied flow reach is L = 2354.58 + 91.13 = 2445.71 m

288

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

15.28. A triangular channel with a side slope of 1:1 and a bed slope of 0.02 carries a
discharge of 100 ft3/s. A gate is located at the end of the channel at which the water depth
is 7.0 ft. determine the length of the rising curve before the gate. Take Manning
roughness coefficient, n, as 0.02 and use the step-by-step method.
Solution: The critical depth is calculated as follows:

100
32.2

= y c2

y c2
. Hence, yc = (24.922)2/5 = 3.62 ft
2 yc

1.49 2 / 3 1 / 2
1.49 y 02

Q= A
R S o . Then, 100 = y 02 x
0.02 2.828 y 0
n
yo = (18.98)3/10 = 2.418 ft
Q2
Q2
A1 h1 +
= A2 h 2 +
gA1
gA2

1/ 2

(0.02)1 / 2

y 23
(2.418) 3
(100) 2
(100) 2
+
=
+
3
3 32.2 x y 22
32.2 x (2.418) 2
y 23 310.559
+
= 4.712 + 53.117 = 57.829
3
y 22
Solving by trial and error, we get y2
= 5.175 ft. A hydraulic jump with a
low stage depth of 2.418 ft and a
high stage depth of 5.175 ft will be
formed. An S1 rising profile will
then be formed after the jump as
shown the Figure. The calculations
are presented in Table P15.28.
Table P15.28: Calculations for the length of S1 profile.
y

5.175

26.78

14.64

1.83

3.73

5.391

Sf x 10-4

30.25

15.56

1.945

3.31

5.67

6.0

36.00

16.97

2.12

2.78

6.12

6.5

42.25

18.38

2.30

2.37

6.587

7.0

49.00

19.8

2.475

2.04

7.065

(So- S f)
x 10-3

dl

9.665

19.033

14.66

6.62

19.34

23.27

5.22

19.48

23.97

2.785

19.72

24.24

11.2
0.279

5.5

S f x 10-4

8.13
0.450
5.11
0.467
3.33
0.478
2.24

L = 86.64 ft.

The total length of S1 curve is about 87 ft. One may also proceed in Table P15.28 staring
from y = 7.0 ft to y = 5.175 ft. The same answer should be obtained but with a negative
sign.

289

Elementary Hydraulics

15.29 A wide channel terminates into a sudden fall. The channel conveys a discharge of
4.2 m3/s/m` and has a bed slope of 16 cm/km. Assume that the depth of flow at the fall is
equal to the critical depth and Manning roughness coefficient is 0.022, find the length of
the water surface profile ahead of the fall.
Solution:

(4.2) 2 (0.022) 2
y0 =

5
16 x 10

0.3

= 3.3 m

q 2 3 (4.2) 2
=
= 1.22 m
g
9.81
The channel has a mild bed slope and an M2 curve will be formed before the fall. The
calculations for the profile length are presented in Table P15.29.
yc =

Table 15.29: Calculations of the length of M2.

y

1.22

3.44

1.823

Sf x 10-4

2.1

2.225

1.68

2.644

3.0

1.4

3.1
3.335

-26.635

-163

6.248

-4.648

-901

3.11

-1.51

-3020

1.936

-0.336

-6994

2.193
0.435

1.29

26.235

4.026
0.456

3.25

dl

8.47
0.419

2.5

(So- S f)x 10-4

44
0.402

2.0

S f x 10-4

1.679
L = 11078 m

Therefore, the length of M2 calculated between y = 1.22 m and y = 3.25 m is 11.078 km.
15.30. A trapezoidal channel with a bed width of 7.0 m and a side slope of 3:2 has a bed
slope of 0.001. The channel conveys a discharge of 30 m3/s and has the Manning
roughness coefficient of 0.02. A dam is constructed to elevate the water level. The water
depth at the dam is 2.5 m. Find the distance upstream the dam where the water depth is
2.0 m .
Solution:
2/3

1 7 y 0 + 1.5 y 02
1/ 2
30 = (7 y 0 + 1.5 y 02 )

(0.001)
0.02 7 + 2 y 0 1 + (1.5) 2

Solving by trial error we get yo = 1.713 m. Also,

(7 y c + 1.5 y c2 ) 2
30
Q A2
= 9.578 =
=
. Hence,
7 + 3 yc
9.81
g B

Solving by trial and error, we get yc = 1.132 m. The channel has a mild bed slope and M1
curve will be formed before the dam. The calculations are given in Table P15.30.

290

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Table P15.30: Calculations for the length of M1 between y = 2.5 m and y = 2.0 m.
y

2.5 26.875

14.5

16.01 1.68

1.116

2.563

2.3 24.035

13.9

15.29 1.57

1.248

2.38

Sf x
10-4

14.57 1.46

1.407

2.2

13.0

14.21 1.41

1.5

2.954 7.046

-259.7

4.098 5.902

-305.0

5.236 4.762

-178.5

4.781
-0.085

2.0 20.0

x 10-4

3.414
-0.18

13.3

10-4

2.494
-0.183

2.1 21.315

S f x (So- S f) dl

2.115

5.692
L = 743.2 m

Therefore, the required length is 743.2 m

15.31. A wide channel with a bed slope of 15x10-4 conveys a specific discharge of 25
ft2/s. A gate is located at the channel inlet where the depth of water at the vena contracted
section is 1 ft. Determine the length of the concrete apron to be constructed after the gate
to contain the jump. Take the Manning roughness coefficient as 0.018 and assume the
length of the jump to be 7 times its height.
Solution:

q = y0

1.49 2 / 3 1 / 2
R S0
n

q 2n2
y 0 =
2
(1.49) S 0

0.3

= 3.43 ft , and y c =

(25) 2
= 2.687 ft
32.2

Then a hydraulic jump must be formed after the gate if the conjugate depth to the normal
depth is greater than 1 ft.
3.43
8(25) 2
y=
1 + 1 +
2
32.2(3.43) 3

= 2.06 m

M3 curve will be formed between y = 1.0 m and y = 2.06 m. The calculations are
presented in Table P15.31, noting that
q2n2
0.091216
=
Sf =
10 / 3
2.22 y
y 10 / 3
Length of the jump = 7(3.43-2.06) = 9.59 ft
The required length of the apron = 209.8 + 9.59 = 219.39 ft
For safety considerations, the apron should have a length of not less than 250 ft

291

Elementary Hydraulics

Table P15.31. Calculations of M3 curve.

y

1.0

25

10.71

1.25

20

7.46

Sf x 10-4

5.82

14.28

4.92

2.06

12.14

4.35

672.5

-657.5

49.4

334.5

-319.5

49.4

188.5

-173.5

51.9

111.5

-96.5

59.1

236
-0.9

1.75

dl

433
-2.18

16.67

(So- S f) x 10-4

912
-3.25

1.5

S f x 10-4

141
-0.57
82
L=209.8ft

15.32. A wide rectangular channel has a critical bed slope carries a specific discharge of
40 ft2/s. Determine the bed slope knowing that the Manning roughness coefficient is
0.022. A gate is placed in midway of the channel. Draw the water surface profile and
determine the length of the gradually varied flow reach after the gate. The depth of water
at the vena-contracted section after the gate is 1.5 ft.
Solution: The channel has a critical bed slope, i.e., yo = yc

(40) 2
= 3.676 ft
32.2
1.49
40 = (3.676)
(3.676) 2 / 3 ( S 0 )1 / 2
0.022
yc = y0 = 3

So = (0.06745)2 = 4.55 x 10-3

C3 curve will be formed after the gate. The water surface profile is shown below. The
calculations for the length of C3 are presented in Table P15.32.

The length of C3 is 351 ft.

292

Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Table P15.32: Calculations for the length of C3 profile.

1.5

26.67

12.54

2.0

20.0

8.21

Sf x 10-4

6.47

13.33

5.76

3.65

10.96

5.52

624.5

-579.0

74.8

255.25

-209.75

82.9

127.05

-81.55

87.1

68.1

-22.6

106.2

164.5
-0.71

3.0

dl

346
-1.74

16.0

(So- S f)x 10-4

903
-4.33

2.5

S f x 10-4

89.6
-0.24
46.6
L = 351 ft

15.33. A barrage is constructed across a wide river with a bed slope of 16x10-4. The
specific discharge of the river is 150 ft2/s. The afflux at the barrage is 5.0 ft. Find the
distance upstream of the dam where the depth of flow is 14.0 ft. Take the Manning
roughness coefficient as 0.026.

150 2
Solution: q = 150 ft /s, yc =
= 8.87 ft.
g
qxn
150 x 0.026
)3/ 5 = (
For wide channels, yn = (
) 3 / 5 = 12.29 ft.
1/ 2
1/ 2
1.49 x (0.0016)
1.49 x S o
So for an afflux of 5 ft, y1 = 12.29 + 5 = 17.29 ft. M1 profile will be encountered before
the barrage. So we must compute the profile between depths of 17.29 ft and 14.0 ft as
given in Table 15.33.
2

Table 15:33. Calculations of the length of M1 profile between y = 14.0 ft and 17.29 ft
y (ft)

V(ft/s)

E (ft)

17.29

8.67

16.46

16.0

9.28

17.36

15.0

10.0

16.55

E (ft)

Sf

0.000588

0.00101

1089

0.000743

0.000857

945

0.000931

0.000669

1151

0.000823
0.77

15.78

dl (ft)

0.000664
0.81

10.71

___

So - S f

0.000512
1.1

14.0

___

Sf

0.00104
Total 3185 ft

15.34. A sharp crested weir is constructed across a wide rectangular channel that carries a
specific discharge of 6.5 m2/s as shown in Figure P15.34. The channel has a bed slope of
20 cm/km and a Manning roughness coefficient of 0.026. The weir has a sill height of 3.0
m and the discharge per unit width over the weir is given as
2
q = C d 2g h 3/2
3

293

Elementary Hydraulics

Where Cd = 0.7 is the discharge coefficient and h is the water head over the weir.
Determine the normal and critical depths. Estimate the distance upstream of the weir
where the depth of flow is 4.75 m.

6.5 2
Solution: q = 6.5 m /s, yc =
= 1.62 m.
g
6.5 x 0.026 3 / 5
yn = (
) = 4.43 m.
(0.0002)1 / 2
2
q = C d 2g h 3/2 = 0.67 x 0.7 x 4.43 h3/2; h = 2.14 m
3
Then, y1 = 3 + 2.14 = 5.14 m. So, we must compute the water surface profile
between the depths of 5.14 m and 4.75 m. The calculations are presented in Table 15.34.
2

Table 15.34. Calculations for the length of water surface profile

y (m)

V (m/s)

E (m)

5.14

1.26

5.22

4.90

1.33

4.99

E (m)

Sf

dl (m)

0.000132

0.000068

3382

0.000151

0.000049

3061

0.000144
0.15

1.37

___

So - S f

0.000121
0.23

4.75

___

Sf

4.84

0.000159
Total L= 6443 m

15.35. A dam is built across a wide rectangular river with a bed slope of 10-4. The river
conveys a specific discharge of 2.833 m2/s. If the depth of flow just upstream of the dam
is 3.5 m, estimate the length of the backwater curve. How far upstream of the dam will
the backwater curve cause a velocity reduction of 18% as compared to the velocity under
normal flow conditions? Take Chezys roughness coefficient as 70 (metric).

2.8332
= 0.935 m.
g
For wide channels, using the Chezy equation, q = C y3/2 So1/2

Solution: q = 2.833 m2/s, yc =

2.833 = 70 x y3/2 x (0.001)1/2, whence yn = 1.18 m, Vn = q/yn = 2.4 m/s.

Then Vn 0.18 Vn = 1.97 m/s. Then, y at that point would be 2.833/1.97 = 1.44 m.
So, we must compute the M1 profile from an initial depth of 3.5 m, to the intermediate
depth of 1.44 m, and then on to normal depth of 1.18 m. Use the Chezy equation for Sf:
V2
Sf = 2
for wide channels.
C xy
The total length out to a depth of 1.4 m (approximately the 18% point) is 2365 m, while
the total length of the profile to 1.2 m (approximately normal depth) is 2933 m.

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Chapter 15. Computation of Water Surface Profiles

Table 15.35: Calculations of the length of M1 profile.

y (m)

V (m/s)

E (m)

3.5

0.81

3.53

E (m)

Sf

0.88

3.24

0.98

2.95

2.6

1.09

2.66
2.38

1.42

2.10

1.67

1.84

1.4

2.02

1.61
1.48

315

0.000114

0.000886

316

0.000170

0.000830

337

0.000270

0.000730

356

0.000465

0.000535

430

0.000771

0.000229

568

0.000595
0.13

2.36

0.0000804 0.000920

0.000335
0.23

1.2

308

0.000206
0.26

1.7

0.0000585 0.000941

0.000134
0.28

2.0

303

0.0000932
0.28

1.23

0.0000438 0.000956

0.0000676
0.29

2.3

dl (m)

0.0000494
0.29

2.9

___

So - S f

0.0000382
0.29

3.2

___

Sf

0.000947
Total L = 2933 m

15.36. A very wide river, with a bed slope of 10 cm/km and a Manning roughness
coefficient of 0.032, conveys a specific discharge of 10 m2/s. A dam is constructed across
the river so that the water depth behind it becomes 14.0 m with a water surface elevation
of 55.0 measured from an arbitrary datum. Two villages A and B are to be built 20 km
and 45 km upstream of the dam, respectively. Find the respective land elevation (relative
to the datum) of the two villages so that they are not to be drowned. Use the standard
step method.
Solution: At the dam, y = 14 m, WS = 55 m, so the channel invert is 41.0 m. Then, with
a channel slope of 0.0001 m/m, the channel invert 20 km upstream is 43 m and the invert
45 km upstream is 45.5 m.
(0.714) 2
At the dam, y = 14 m, q = 10 m2/s, V = q/y = 0.714 m/s, E = y+
= 14.03 or
2g
0.032 x 0.714 2
ET = 55.03 m. Sf = (
) = 0.0000155 m/m, for wide channels where R = y.
(14) 2 / 3
At Section 2, 20 km upstream, assume y = 13 m, WS = 56 m, V = 10/13 = 0.769 m/s,
(0.769) 2
0.032 x 0.769 2
= 13.03 m, ET = 56.03 m, Sf = (
E = 13+
) = 0.0000198 m/m.
2g
(13) 2 / 3
___
S + Sf2
S f = f1
= 0.0000176 m/m. Then hlobs = 56.03 55.03 = 1 m, and hcal = 0.0000176
2
x 20,0000 = 0.352 m. Since the two estimates do not match, estimate another y at Section
2.

295

Elementary Hydraulics

(V1 ) 2
(V2 ) 2
WS1+
+ hcal = WS2+
2g
2g
55.352 + 56
= 55.676
2
m. Then at Section 2, y = 55.676 43 = 12.676 m, V = 0.79 m/s, E = 12.708 or ET =
___
0.0000155 + 0.0000216
0.032 x 0.79 2
=
0.0000216
m/m.
=
55.707 m. Sf = (
S
)
f =
2/3
2
(12.676)
0.0000186 m/m. hlobs = 55.707 55.03 = 0.677 m, hcal = 0.0000186 x 20,000 = 0.372 m.

55+0.03+0.352 = WS2+0.03, whence WS2 = 55.352, new WS2 =

Again, the two estimates do not match sufficiently, so

55+0.03+0.372 = WS2+0.032, or WS2 = 55.37, y = 55.37-43 = 12.37 m, V = 0.81 m/s,
0.032 x 0.81 2
E = 12.403 or ET = 55.403.
Sf = (
) = 0.0000235
(12.37) 2 / 3
___
0.0000155 + 0.0000235
= 0.0000195 m/m, . hlobs = 55.403-55.03 = 0.373,
Sf =
2
hcal = 0.0000195 x 20,000 = 0.390 m; since this difference is only 0.17 m, this is
considered close enough.
Move on to Section 3, located 25000 m upstream of Section 2.
Assume y3 = 10.33 m, or WS3 = 55.83 m, V = 0.97 m/s, E = 10.378, ET = 55.878 m,
___
0.032 x 0.97 2
0.0000235 + 0.0000428
=
0.0000428
m/m.
= 0.0000332 m/m.
)
S
f =
2/3
2
(10.33)
hlobs = 55.878 55.403 = 0.475 m, hcal = 0.0000332 x 25,000 = 0.829 m. Since these
estimates do not match sufficiently, we must estimate a new stage at 3,

Sf = (

55.83 + 56.184
=56.007 m.
2
y = 56.007 45.5 = 10.507, V = 0.95 m/s, E = 10.553 m, ET = 56.053 m,
___
0.032 x 0.95 2
0.0000235 + 0.0000402
=
0.0000402,
= 0.0000318 m/m.
Sf = (
)
S
f =
2/3
2
(10.507 )

55.403 + 0.829 = WS3+0.048, or WS3 = 56.184 m, WS3 =

hlobs = 56.053 55.403 = 0.65 m, hcal = 0.0000318 x 25,000 = 0.795 m. Find new WS3,
55.403+0.795 = WS3+0.046, WS3 = 56.152 m. y = 56.152 45.5 = 10.652 m,
0.032 x 0.94 2
V = 0.94 m/s, E = 10.697 m, ET = 56.197, Sf = (
) = 0.0000386 m/m.
(10.652) 2 / 3
___
0.0000235 + 0.0000386
= 0.0000311 m/m.
Sf =
2
hlobs = 56.197 55.403 = 0.794 m, hcal = 0.0000311 x 25,000 = 0.777 m. Since this
difference is only 0.017 m, it is considered close enough.

296