Observation and Modeling -- An Integrated Study of Transport through the Strait of Bab al Mandam, Task B: Modeling
Abstract
A new bottom bathymetric data set with a resolution of 500 m was created based on the digitization of the nautical charts. A new curvilinear coordinate model grid was generated based on the digitized bathymetric data. The Princeton Ocean Model was configured to use the model grid with two open boundaries located along the northern boundary located in the Red Sea and the southern boundary located in the Gulf of Aden. Relaxation experiments were carried out, whereby the model stratification was initially set to some realistic stratification, and the model was then allowed to develop its own dynamics while applying the radiation open boundary conditions and relaxing the temperature and salinity values along the two open boundaries toward the initial boundary conditions. Summer and winter stratification profiles from Levitus climatology as well as the CTD data collected under Task A were used. The model develops a distinct two layer flow in the winter stratification, while a three layer flow would result in the summer stratification as observed previously. One prominent feature identified in the model is the time dependent nature of the flow with energetic oscillations with periods of 12-15 days especially in summer, similar to what has been noted during the field experiments under Task A.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 15, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA352307
Entities
People
- Masamichi Inoue
Organizations
- Louisiana State University