A NUMERICAL MODEL OF THE SALINITY DISTRIBUTION IN UPPER CHESAPEAKE BAY.
Abstract
Upper Chesapeake Bay can be modelled as a one-dimensional estuary to predict the salinity distribution for a given fresh water inflow from the Susquehanna River. The one-dimensionality implies that salinity values are average taken over the cross section of the estuary and that variables are related only to time and position along a longitudinal axis. The model presented in this study is based on a salt continuity equation in which the seaward salt advection is balanced by turbulent diffusion toward the head of the Bay. Since the interest is in the effects of net non-tidal circulation, the governing equation has been averaged over the tidal cycle. In final form, it is a linear, parabolic partial differential equation with variable coefficients. One year's salinity data were used to determine the functional dependence of the coefficients on the fresh water inflow. The boundary value at the head of the estuary is held fixed, while the seaward boundary value is allowed to vary with time. A separate predictor model relates this value to the flow of the Susquehanna. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0691241
Entities
People
- William Boicourt
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University