Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134074254
ISBN 13: 978-0-13407-425-2

Chapter 16 - Section 16.4 - The Work of Running Water - Concept Checks - Page 480: 3

Answer

Capacity and competency are two different aspects of a stream's ability to transport sediments. Capacity refers to the total amount of sediment that a stream can carry, and it is influenced by the stream's discharge and velocity. A stream with a higher discharge and flow velocity has a greater capacity to transport sediments. Competency, on the other hand, refers to the stream's ability to carry the largest-sized particles, such as boulders or cobbles. A stream with higher flow velocity and energy is more competent and can move larger and heavier particles.

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