Mixing in Haro Strait
Abstract
The long-term goal is to better understand mixing processes in estuaries. Of particular interest are the processes at work in the Haro Strait region between Washington State and British Columbia, which are modulated by a spring/neap cycle in tidal velocities. The field phase of the Haro Strait experiment took place in the summer of 1996 and involved a collaborative effort between MIT, WHOI and IOS. Our objectives are to understand the dynamics associated with intense coastal mixing processes in which separation of tidal flows past topography leads to formation of fronts accompanied by instability and mixing. During this year, we have begun to analyze this data in two different areas. First, we wanted to better quantify the large-scale dynamics. This means estimating horizontal layer transports, rates and amounts of mixing that take place. Second, we want to use these results to understand the importance of smaller-scale mixing that occurs at convergence fronts within this region.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA572525
Entities
People
- David Farmer
Organizations
- Institute of Ocean Sciences