Project Info
Why are avulsion angles around 50 degrees?
Piret Plink-Bjorklund
pplink@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Rivers shift their course by “jumps” or avulsions and the average angle between these “jumps” has been shown to be around 50 degrees. Lava flows that have very different physical properties also avulse with average 50 degree angles. This project will explore why there is a specific avulsion angle by expanding the measurements also to debris flows and linking avulsion nodes to gradient changes.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Not applicable.
Contact Piret Plink-Bjorklund pplink@mines.edu
Primary Contacts:
Contact Piret Plink-Bjorklund pplink@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Some GIS experience.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
up to 5 hours but flexible
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
The student will learn how to set up and conduct research projects, including scientific questions and testable hypothesis, how to plan and conduct work that ensures results, and how to disseminate the results by conference presentations or publications. TThe student will also gain GIS experience.
MENTORING PLAN
The student will work closely with me and with a PhD student. We will set up regular weekly or bi-weekly meetings to monitor the progress. We will together develop a research plan and decide on expected outcomes. The student is also invited to join weekly research group meetings and any activities. I will encourage the student to present at the department's yearly science fair as well as at a major conference, and to co-author a publication.
Preferred Student Status
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior