least-work principle

least-work principle

least-work principle The theory that geomorphological processes always operate in such a way as to achieve the work that has to be done with a minimum expenditure of energy (and maximum entropy). This is typically achieved by the adoption of a certain profile or shape (e.g. a river meander may be that shape best suited for carrying the discharge and sediment with the least loss of energy). See LEAST-WORK PROFILE.

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AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY. "least-work principle." A Dictionary of Earth Sciences. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. 31 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY. "least-work principle." A Dictionary of Earth Sciences. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. (May 31, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O13-leastworkprinciple.html

AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY. "least-work principle." A Dictionary of Earth Sciences. 1999. Retrieved May 31, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O13-leastworkprinciple.html

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least-work principle

least-work principle The theory that geomorphological processes always operate in such a way as to achieve the work that has to be done with a minimum expenditure of energy (and maximum entropy). This is typically achieved by the adoption of a certain profile or shape (e.g. a river meander may be that shape best suited for carrying the discharge and sediment with the least loss of energy). See least-work profile.

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MICHAEL ALLABY. "least-work principle." A Dictionary of Ecology. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. 31 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

MICHAEL ALLABY. "least-work principle." A Dictionary of Ecology. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. (May 31, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O14-leastworkprinciple.html

MICHAEL ALLABY. "least-work principle." A Dictionary of Ecology. 2004. Retrieved May 31, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O14-leastworkprinciple.html

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