Geomorphology Using Geographic Information System and Globel Mapper

Abstract

An effort has been made to evaluate drainage morphometry and its influence on landform processes, geology and erosion characteristics in Jordan Valley and surrounding area. Geological maps 1:50,000 scale and the professional Google Earth images were used for analysis of various morphometric, lithological and landform characteristics of Jordan Valley basin. Morphometric analysis was carried out at sub basin level using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Globel Mapper (GM) to analyze the influence of drainage morphometry on landforms, drainage pattern and land erosion. Different landforms were recognized in the basin based on visual exposition of 3D Digital Elevation Model (DEM) that obtained from the thousands of points of the elevations by using GIS and GM, escarpments, plateau spurs, narrow wadies "vallies" and main wadies floor, foot slopes. The sub basins that take number 2, 5 and 6 are associated with high density dentritic drainage pattern because of impermeable formation and high slope then high surface runoff and high erosion. The sub basins number 1, 3, 4 are associated to a low density dentritic drainage pattern due to the topography of the area that is flat shape and the formation is impermeable. A1, A2 and A3 are a trellis drainage pattern with high density because of the moderate slope and high fracturing formation.