Computational modeling of river delta formation

A new model to simulate the time evolution of river delta formation process is presented in Ref.. It is based on the continuity equation for water and sediment flow and a phenomenological sedimentation/ erosion law. Different delta types are reproduced using different parameters and erosion rules. The model si capable to describe the subaerial and subaqueous growth of the delta front and the fromation of levees. The structures of the calculated patterns are analyzed in space and time and compared with real data patterns. Furthermore our model is capable to simulate the rich dynamics related to the switching of the mouth of the river delta. The simulation results are then compared with geological records for the Mississippi river.