It seems like the Milky Way falls from the sky - some knowledge about the mechanics of waterfalls

Waterfalls are always associated with amazing sights and magnificent momentum in people's minds, but the mechanical principles behind them are often overlooked. In fact, waterfalls contain many mechanical mysteries, such as the interaction between water flow and gravity, the mutual influence of erosion and waves, etc., which reflect the mystery and diversity of nature.

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First of all, the most significant mechanical feature of a waterfall is the interaction between water flow and gravity. When water falls from a high altitude, it is transformed into a violently rotating vortex under the action of gravity. As the water falls from a high altitude, gravity accelerates the water flow and gradually makes it denser and larger. When the water hits the pool under the waterfall, due to the sudden disappearance of kinetic energy, the water flow before entering the water surface and the water remaining on the water surface will form a large amount of foam and water splashes, which collide and dissipate with each other, forming the famous waterfall mist.

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Secondly, the rocks and landforms in the waterfalls also have very strong mechanical characteristics. Waterfalls are formed by water impacting rocks. When water flows under long-term erosion, the surface of rocks and other materials is worn away, or directly impacts and collapses, which forms the magnificent scene seen in the waterfall. At the same time, due to long-term erosion, waterfalls often form special landforms such as waterfall ravines and canyons. These landforms have huge ground height differences, and the hydraulic fields formed by waves and eddies in the waterfalls will also undergo drastic changes, such as the drastic interweaving of high and low speed water flows, and the expansion and contraction of water flows. These are rare mechanical manifestations in waterfalls.

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Finally, the water level regulation and hydrological environment in the waterfall are also key factors affecting the mechanical characteristics of the waterfall. The waterfall is closely connected with the hydrological system upstream. Factors such as water level regulation, rainfall and groundwater distribution will affect the dynamic characteristics of the waterfall and the discharge of water flow. This requires us to not only focus on the landscape effects of the waterfall itself when protecting and scientifically studying the waterfall, but also pay attention to comprehensive issues such as hydrological environment, dynamic research, resource protection, ecological environment, etc.

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In short, the waterfall landscape leaves a deep visual impression on people, but the mechanical principles behind it are very complex and profound. We need in-depth research and scientific analysis to better understand the mystery and wonder. Ecological and environmental protection is also an indispensable and important part of waterfall landscape research. We should formulate and implement relevant policies and measures according to specific circumstances to protect the natural landscape and achieve the goal of sustainable development.