Nonhydrostatic Numerical Modeling of Wave Dynamics Interacting with Estuarine Fronts
Abstract
Highly dynamic flow patterns and structures are common near the density-stratified estuarine fronts due to interactions between river outflows, tidal currents, complex bathymetry, and surface waves. Near the energetic frontal zones, internal waves, shear instabilities, and along front stabilities are ubiquitous. The front represents a narrow region of intense flow convergence/divergence whichresults in significant downwelling/upwelling velocity up to several tens of cm/s. In general, these flow structures can enhance mixing, entrain bubbles and suspended particulate matters (SPMs) to modify water properties, sensor performance, and AUV operation. While it has been widely recognized that the surface wave characteristics are significantly affected by the presence of river plume, recent field studies also demonstrated the effect of wave breaking turbulence and wave-current interaction on the plume depth and mixing characteristics. Importantly, these flow features can leave unique surface signatures, either via the strong surface convergence/divergence or via instabilities or coherent structures, which can be detected by remote sensing imagery. The long term goal of the proposed work is to understand flow structures, wave dynamics and their surface signatures in the frontal regions of stratified environments through an integrated approach combining eddy-resolving/wave-resolving non-hydrostatic numerical simulations, in-situ data and remote sensing. In this two-year project we will 1) study the internal hydraulic features and internal wave generation/evolution observed in James River estuary using a nonhydrostatic numerical model, 2) investigate the interaction between river plumes and surface waves by expanding the existing eddy-resolving simulations at Connecticut River plume with surface wave resolving simulations; 3) complete the existing numerical analysis and model-data comparison on the along-front instabilities observed at Connecticut River plume; and to be informed with new observation that may be related to nonhydrostatic processes at Mobile Bay.Approved for Public Release.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 09, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112541
Entities
People
- Tian-jian Hsu
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Delaware