Cavities and the effective pressure between abrading clasts and the bedrock

Abstract

The mechanical configuration of cavities associated with clasts is discussed, and how this affects the water pressure underneath the clast. The range of permissible water pressure is determined by flow parallel to the bed rather than by flow towards the bed. The actual pressure is controlled by hydraulic connections to areas away from the clast. The degree of cavitation provides an additional degree of freedom which adjusts to ensure that horizontal and vertical forces respect the Coulomb friction condition.