Inverting Topography for Landscape Evolution Model Process Representation: 3. Determining Parameter Ranges for Select Mature Geomorphic Transport Laws and Connecting Changes in Fluvial Erodibility to Changes in Climate. Issue 7 (8th July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barnhart, Katherine R.; Tucker, Gregory E.; Doty, Sandra G.; Shobe, Charles M.; Glade, Rachel C.; Rossi, Matthew W.; Hill, Mary C.
• Is Part Of: Journal of geophysical research. Volume 125:Issue 7(2020)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2020-07-08
• Subjects: geomorphic transport laws -- parameter values; Geomorphology -- Periodicals; 551.3
• DOI: 10.1029/2019JF005287
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2169-9003

Abstract

Abstract : We review select mature geomorphic transport laws for use in temperate ridge and valley landscapes and compile parameter estimates for use in applications. This work is motivated by a case study of sensitivity analysis, calibration, validation, multimodel comparison, and prediction under uncertainty, which required bounding values for parameter ranges. Considered geomorphic transport formulae span hillslope sediment transport, soil production, and erosion by surface water. We compile or derive estimates for the parameters in these transport formulae. Additionally, we address a common challenge—connecting changes in precipitation distribution to changes in effective erodibility—by using a simple hydrologic model and a method to estimate precipitation distribution parameters using commonly available data. While some parameters are reasonably well constrained, others span orders of magnitude. Some, such as soil infiltration capacity, have a direct physical meaning but are challenging to measure on geologically relevant timescales. Through the process of compiling these ranges we identify common challenges in parameter determination. The issue of comparable units derives from considering an exponent as an empirically inferred coefficient rather than as an expression of a fundamental relationship. The issue of appropriate timescales derives from the mismatch between human measurement and geologic timescales. This contribution thus serves both as a practical compilation for applications and as a synthesis of outstanding challenges in parameter selection for geomorphic transport laws. Key Points: We provide a compilation of parameter ranges for mature geomorphic transport laws in terrestrial geomorphology A simple hydrological model connects changes in the precipitation distribution with erodibility coefficients Common challenges include incomparable units and mismatch between observation and simulation timescales