A test of the statistical theory of meander formation.

The statistical theory of meander formation ascribes the meandering of stream channels to the hypothesis that a river has a Gaussian probability to deviate by an angle dΦ in progressing an elemental distance ds along its course. This paper aims at checking this hypothesis. Taking three cases, the Salt Fork Vermilion River in Illinois, the Assiniboine River in Canada, and, as an interesting comparison, a 'river' (Hadley Rill) on the Moon, it was indeed possible to show that the probability in question is Gaussian, using pertinent statistical tests. Our study can therefore be said to confirm to this extent the probabilistic view of meander development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]