The Study of Upper Ocean Stratification that Controls Propagation of Internal Tidal Bores in Coastal Areas
Abstract
Coastal ocean stratification and optical properties have been analyzed over a month period from Moss Landing to Monterey Bay in Monterey, California, during October 2011. This research utilized measurements from four different observing systems: the Tethys long-range propeller-driven autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV); a Spray glider AUV; a SeaHorse moored profiler; and a thermistor chain to evaluate changes in conductivity, pressure, temperature, salinity, and optics over a 4-week time period. Each instrument observed the ocean structure and propagation of internal tidal bores in coastal areas, capturing the strength of the internal tides and their impact on the bed as they shoal and entrain sediment into the upper water column. The main focus of this field study is to identify oceanographic processes responsible for heightened bed stress and the suspension of benthic material on the continental shelf. The primary objectives of this experiment are as follows: (1) determine stratification conditions that are conducive for the generation of internal tidal bores in Monterey Bay, (2) track the presence of enhanced near-bed sediment concentration and determine the site of maximum suspension, and (3) identify the generation areas of intermediate nepheloid layers. The combination of moored and mobile instruments provides spatial and temporal views of the resuspension of seabed materials and resolves the processes that control the formation of nepheloid layers over the Monterey Bay shelf.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA563744
Entities
People
- Kathryn A. Yanez
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School