32.6. Mass Curve of Runoff – Analysis

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a Mass Curve used for?

   Hint

   Think about the relationship between water flow and its storage.

2. 2.

   What does steep slopes in a Mass Curve indicate?

   Hint

   Consider what happens in a flood situation.

3. 3.

   What does a steep slope in the Mass Curve indicate?

   • High inflow conditions
   • Low inflow conditions
   • Constant inflow

   Hint

   Consider what happens during heavy rainfall.

4. 4.

   True or False: The Mass Curve can be used to analyze periods of both surplus and deficit in water flow.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about what the mass curve shows above and below the demand line.

5. 5.

   Given a dataset of inflow rates over a year, construct a Mass Curve, determine the storage requirements based on a specified demand line, and explain your reasoning.

   Hint

   Pay attention to both the peaks in inflow and how they correspond to demand.

6. 6.

   If a reservoir operates under varying inflow conditions, how might a Mass Curve assist in operational decision-making?

   Hint

   Consider the operational flexibility the Mass Curve offers based on fluctuating inflow data.