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101-0269-00L 3 Credits MSC , NDS D-BAUG

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River Morphodynamic Modelling

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. David Florian Vetsch, Dr. Davide Vanzo

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:08:30

Abstract

The course teaches the basics of morphodynamic modelling, relevant for civil and environmental engineers. The governing equations for sediment transport in open channels and corresponding numerical solution strategies are introduced. The theoretical parts are discussed by examples.

Objective

The goal of the course is twofold. First, the students develop a throughout understanding of the basics of river morphodynamic processes. Second, they get familiar with numerical tools for the simulations in one- and two-dimensions of morphodynamics.

Content

- fundamentals of river morphodynamics (Exner equation, bed-load, suspended-load) - aggradation and degradation processes - river bars - non-uniform sediment morphodynamics: the Hirano model - short and long term response of gravel bed rivers to change in sediment supply

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes, slides shown in the lecture and software can be downloaded

Literature

Citations will be given in lecture.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC , NDS
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 30 minutes

The compulsory continuous performance assessment task: A group report has to be delivered in advance (deadline will be announced in lecture). It needs not be passed on its own; it is awarded a grade which counts 40% towards the total course unit grade.

Registration & Places

Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	River Morphodynamic Modelling Important: Lecture starts at 10:30 (until 12:30)!	Wed 09:45-12:30 (HIL C 10.2)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Civil Engineering Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2020)
  - Major Courses
    - Major in Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management
  - Digitalisation Specific Courses
Environmental Engineering Master
- Majors
  - Major Water Resources Management
    - Compulsory Moudules
      - Flow and Transport
  - Major River and Hydraulic Engineering
    - Compulsory Moudules
      - Flow and Transport
- Elective Modules (For all majors.)
  - EM: Flow and Transport (Elective Module for Majors "Environmental Technologies", "Resource Management" and "Urban Water Management".)
MAS in Sustainable Water Resources (The Master of Advanced Studies in Sustainable Water Resources is a 12 month full time postgraduate diploma programme. The focus of the programme is on issues of sustainability and water resources in Latin America, with special attention given to the impacts of development and climate change on water resources. The programme combines multidisciplinary coursework with high level research. Sample research topics include: water quality, water quantity, water for agriculture, water for the environment, adaptation to climate change, and integrated water resource management. Language: English. Credit hours: 66 ECTS. For further information please visit: )
- Foundation Courses