Sedimentary Structures - Bedforms Vs. Flow

Bedforms Vs. Flow

Typical unidirectional bedforms represent a specific flow velocity, assuming typical sediments (sands and silts) and water depths, and a chart such as below can be used for interpreting depositional environments, with increasing water velocity going down the chart.

Flow Regime Bedform Preservation Potential Identification Tips
Lower
Lower plane bed High Flat laminae, almost lack of current
Ripple marks High Small, cm-scale undulations
Sand waves Medium to low Rare, longer wavelength than ripples
Dunes/Megaripples Low Large, meter-scale ripples
Upper
Upper plane bed High Flat laminae, +/- aligned grains (parting lineations)
Antidunes Low Water in phase with bedform, low angle, subtle laminae
Pool and chute Very low Mostly erosional features

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