For a small pebble, we can assume the waves (i.e., ripples) are of small amplitude. If that is the case, the value of the Froude number allows us to determine if a ripple can propagate upstream. A simple calculation yields Fr=V/\sqrt{gy}=1\ \mathrm{ft} /s/ \sqrt{(32.2\ \mathrm{ft} /s^2)(10\ \mathrm{ft} )}=0.056. Since Fr < 1, the ripples can travel upstream. For small amplitude waves, the wave speed in stationary fluid of this depth is

c_0=\sqrt{gy}=\sqrt{(32.2\ \mathrm{ft} /s^2)(10\ \mathrm{ft} )}=17.9\ \mathrm{ft} /s

Thus, the ripples will propagate upstream on this river at c = c₀ − V = 17.9 – 1 = 16.9 ft/s and downstream at c = c₊ − V = 17.9 + 1 = 18.9 ft/s.