Tidal Flats and Muddy Seafloors
Abstract
The long-term goal is to develop field-verified models for the evolution of surface-gravity waves, circulation, sediment transport, and the subsequent morphological response in shallow, coastal waters. The objectives of our studies in FY09 are to collect observations of currents, waves, and bathymetry on tidal flats, and to develop, test, and improve models for tidal-flat processes and for mud-induced dissipation of waves in shallow water. Specific goals relating to tidal flats are to: - Investigate the relative importance to the circulation of riverine and tidal flows, and - Estimate the bottom stresses owing to waves and tidal and subtidal flows on the flats. Specific goals relating to waves over muddy seafloors are to: - Extend existing wave models to account for damping by mud, and - Use the observations and models to test hypotheses for mud-induced damping. Additional goals in FY09 relating to sandy coasts include analysis of waves, currents, and morphological change onshore of complex shallow-water bathymetry dominated by two submarine canyons that extend nearly to the shoreline.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA527196
Entities
People
- Britt Raubenheimer
- Steve Elgar
Organizations
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution