Jõevool

Jõevool refers to the continuous movement of water within a river or stream. This flow is primarily driven by gravity, with water moving from higher elevations to lower ones. The speed and volume of the jõevool are influenced by several factors. Gradient, or the steepness of the riverbed, is a major determinant; steeper slopes result in faster flow. The amount of water in the river, known as discharge, also directly impacts flow speed. A larger discharge generally leads to a more powerful and faster jõevool. The shape and size of the river channel play a role too. Narrower and deeper channels tend to have faster currents than wider, shallower ones because of reduced friction with the riverbed and banks.

Obstacles within the channel, such as rocks, fallen trees, or vegetation, can create turbulence and alter the flow pattern, sometimes slowing it down and other times increasing its speed locally. Jõevool is a critical aspect of river ecosystems, transporting sediment, nutrients, and dissolved oxygen, and shaping the physical characteristics of the riverbed and surrounding landscape through erosion and deposition. Understanding jõevool is important for hydrology, river management, and predicting the behavior of waterways.