Periodic resuspension in Baltimore canyon by focusing of internal waves

摘要: High concentrations of particulate matter are frequently reported in submarine canyons. This study demonstrates that Baltimore canyon, elevated result from periodic resuspension events. The sloping bottom and V-shaped topography canyons could accelerate tidal flows the canyon axis sufficiently to cause resuspension, which occurs predominantly at frequencies. However, current meter transmissometer data show events often associated with a borelike intrusion cold water moving upslope near head; an event is consistent focusing internal wave energy toward head Hydrographic conditions for most favorable late winter early spring when stratification diminished; direct observations reveal pronounced occur during those seasons. Bottom stresses generated sufficient resuspend sediment along least between 200 800 m, little occurring deeper axis, on walls, adjacent slope, or shelf. During event, sediment-laden forced upcanyon, then sloshes back down until it reaches layer higher-density water, detaches floor, moves seaward density surface. means transferring pollutants intercepted across shelf-slope front. Over geologic time, frequent transport may aid headward erosion canyons, inhibit their infilling interglacial times.