Investigation of model capability in capturing vertical hydrodynamic coastal processes: A case study in the north Adriatic Sea

摘要: Abstract. In this work we consider a numerical study of hydrodynamics in the coastal zone using two different models, SHYFEM (shallow water hydrodynamic finite element model) and MITgcm (Massachusetts Institute Technology general circulation model), to assess their capability capture main processes. We focus on north Adriatic Sea during a strong dense event that occurred at beginning 2012. This serves as an interesting test case examine both models strengths weaknesses, while giving opportunity understand how these events affect processes, like upwelling downwelling, they interact with estuarine dynamics. Using impact setup, surface lateral boundary treatment, resolution mixing schemes, well assessing importance nonhydrostatic dynamics Both are able event, though each displays biases regions. The show large differences reproduction patterns, identifying choice suitable bulk formulas a central point for correct simulation thermohaline structure zone. Moreover, approaches treating freshwater sources vertical stratification. results indicate having high horizontal zone, specifically close proximity river inputs, order reproduce effect complex morphology hydrodynamics. A lower offshore is acceptable even if specific vortical structures missed. Finally, it found processes little formation shelf Sea.