Temporal variability of sediment concentration and hysteresis phenomena in the Wadi Wahrane basin, Algeria

The relationship between sediment concentration, C, and water discharge, Q, during floods is studied qualitatively by analysing temporal graphs and the particular relationship C-Q. The plot of points exhibits a hysteresis loop which is explained by the variability of concentration of sediments during storm events. This is due to seasonal effects and hysteresis of sediment concentration during a single hydrological event. A simple and reliable criterion, the ratio C/Q, was used for identification of a hysteresis loop. This study revealed three classes of C-Q relationships. Explanations for each type are discussed.