 The most efficient cross section:

 A channel section is said to be the most efficient if

it gives the maximum discharge for the given
shape, slope, area and roughness
 The most efficient cross-section offers least
resistance to flow
 The most efficient section is usually the most
economical section
 The cost of construction depends to a large extent
on the quantity of excavation
 Moreover, for the channel of the most efficient
cross-section, the wetted perimeter is a
minimum, thus the cost of the channel grading
and lining, which depends on the wetted
perimeter, is also a minimum

V = f ( R, S ) Q = A f (R, S )
 For a given cross-section area and slope, the
discharge, Q will be maximum when R is a
maximum