Modelling salinity and circulation for the Columbia River Estuary

摘要: Abstract Simulations of the time and depth-dependent salinity current fields Columbia River Estuary have been performed using a multi-channel, laterally averaged estuary model. The study simulated two periods. first, in October 1980, with low riverflow about 4,000m 3 s −1 , which showed marked changes intrusion processes between neap spring tides; second, 1981, high varying 7,000 15,000m rapid response to that vertical mixing did not change character increasing tidal energy because maintenance stratification by freshwater flow. An extreme flow simulation (riverflow 2,000m ) more partially mixed channels dispersion salt across Taylor Sands from North Channel upper reaches Navigation Channel. Asymmetries non-linear mean flows, flood ebb circulations, characteristics major were observed at all riverflows. model confirms Jay Smith 's (1990) analysis circulation advection vertically sheared currents is dominant mechanism maintained against large flows. accurate finite-difference method, minimized numerical dispersion, was used for terms an important component reasonably simulating neap-spring differences intrusion. simulations compare favorably elevation, series observations taken during 1980 1981.