Tidal truncation and barotropic convergence in a channel network tidally driven from opposing entrances

Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science
By: , and 

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Abstract

Residual circulation patterns in a channel network that is tidally driven from entrances on opposite sides are controlled by the temporal phasing and spatial asymmetry of the two forcing tides. The Napa/Sonoma Marsh Complex in San Francisco Bay, CA, is such a system. A sill on the west entrance to the system prevents a complete tidal range at spring tides that results in tidal truncation of water levels. Tidal truncation does not occur on the east side but asymmetries develop due to friction and off-channel wetland storage. The east and west asymmetric tides meet in the middle to produce a barotropic convergence zone that controls the transport of water and sediment. During spring tides, tidally averaged water-surface elevations are higher on the truncated west side. This creates tidally averaged fluxes of water and sediment to the east. During neap tides, the water levels are not truncated and the propagation speed of the tides controls residual circulation, creating a tidally averaged flux in the opposite direction. ?? 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Study Area

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Tidal truncation and barotropic convergence in a channel network tidally driven from opposing entrances
Series title Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science
DOI 10.1016/S0272-7714(02)00213-5
Volume 56
Issue 3-4
Year Published 2003
Language English
Publisher Elsevier
Contributing office(s) San Francisco Bay-Delta, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center, Pacific Regional Director's Office
Description 11 p.
First page 629
Last page 639
Country United States
State California
City San Francisco
Other Geospatial Napa/Sonoma Marsh Complex, San Francisco Bay
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
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