Sand Waves in Tidal Channels
Abstract
Shear stresses on the bottom of sandy tidal channels create periodic undulations called bedforms. In turn, these features may impart the dominant source of friction onto the tidal flow. The majority of our knowledge regarding bedforms is based on flume and river studies where the flow is steady and unidirectional. These assumptions do not apply to tidal settings where flow is unsteady and bidirectional. Data collected at two sites tested the hypothesis that, in addition to the flow and sedimentologic regime, sediment availability, wave processes, and dredging practices control the morphology and stability of the bedforms. Sequential mapping at Moriches Inlet, NY, showed that bedforms at this site are 39 cm high and moribund. Theoretically, bedforms of this height should only form when flow velocities reach 0.8 m/s. However, maximum measured velocities during the study were only 0.6 m/s. It is hypothesized that the bedforms become active during storms when strong winds or storm-induced surges increase the tidal range and the ensuing tidal currents. A two-dimensional, depth-integrated hydraulic model indicates that a current velocity of 80 cm/s will occur when the tidal range exceeds 1.6 m, ~1.0 m greater than the typical spring tidal range. Regression analysis of hydraulic parameters measured in the field confirms this.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA517088
Entities
People
- Shelley J. Whitmeyer
Organizations
- Boston University