 Reflected information in a finite lock release

A rectangular lock of length ${\ell }_0$ and depth $h_0$ has rarefaction head speed $-c_0$, where $c_0=\sqrt{g^{\prime }{h}_0}$. It reaches a closed rear wall at $t_r={\ell }_0/c_0$. The first reflected positive characteristic curve follows $x={\ell }_0+2c_{0}t-3c_0{t}_r^{2/3}{t}^{1/3}$ inside the undisturbed rarefaction, then crosses the uniform shelf and reaches the front at the displayed time. This marks the end of the initial constant-speed front stage in the ideal fixed-front-Froude model.