Non-linear aspects of the tidal dynamics in the Sylt-Rømø Bight, south-eastern North Sea
<p>This study is dedicated to the tidal dynamics in the Sylt-Rømø Bight with a focus on the non-linear processes. The FESOM-C model was used as the numerical tool, which works with triangular, rectangular or mixed grids and is equipped with a wetting/drying option. As the model's success...
| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Copernicus Publications
2019-12-01
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| Series: | Ocean Science |
| Online Access: | https://www.ocean-sci.net/15/1761/2019/os-15-1761-2019.pdf |
| Summary: | <p>This study is dedicated to the tidal dynamics in the
Sylt-Rømø Bight with a focus on the non-linear processes. The FESOM-C
model was used as the numerical tool, which works with triangular,
rectangular or mixed grids and is equipped with a wetting/drying option. As
the model's success at resolving currents largely depends on the quality of
the bathymetric data, we have created a new bathymetric map for an area
based on recent studies of Lister Deep, Lister Ley, Højer Deep and
Rømø Deep. This new bathymetric product made it feasible to work
with high-resolution grids (up to 2 m in the wetting/drying zone). As a
result, we were able to study the tidal energy transformation and the role
of higher harmonics in the domain in detail. For the first time, the tidal
ellipses, maximum tidally induced velocities, energy fluxes and residual
circulation maps were constructed and analysed for the entire bight.
Additionally, tidal asymmetry maps were introduced and constructed. The full
analysis was performed on two grids with different structures and showed a
convergence of the results as well as fulfilment of the energy balance. A
great deal of attention has been paid to the selection of open-boundary conditions, model validation against tide gauges and recent in situ current
data. The tidal residual circulation and asymmetric tidal cycles largely
define the circulation pattern, transport and accumulation of sediment, and
the distribution of bedforms in the bight; therefore, the results presented
in the article are necessary and useful benchmarks for further studies in
the area, including baroclinic and sediment dynamics investigations.</p> |
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| ISSN: | 1812-0784 1812-0792 |