Structural equation model of the spatial distribution of water engineering facilities along the Beijing-Hangzhou grand canal and its relationship with natural factors

Research reveals that the spatial distribution of water engineering facilities along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal during the Ming and Qing dynasties was significantly influenced by natural factors, particularly the main channel slope and slope direction. These factors exhibited a negative correlation with facility placement, while tributary slope and slope direction had indirect effects mediated by watershed area. The study used structural equation modeling to analyze these relationships, providing critical data for heritage protection and cultural corridor development along the canal.

Cheng, W., Yiwen, Z., Liang, L., Yihua, Y., Guanhua, W., Xin, Q., & Yangqinxue, Z. (2023). Structural equation model of the spatial distribution of water engineering facilities along the Beijing-Hangzhou grand canal and its relationship with natural factors. Heritage Science, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-023-01088-y