View source for INBUCOC

'''Title:''' ''Interacting Buoyant Coastal Currents''
<br>
<br>
'''Summary''': Buoyant coastal currents strongly influence coastal circulation and ecosystems and, on a global scale, the redistribution of freshwater. The interaction of buoyant currents from different river sources is a common phenomenon; for example, the western Adriatic Sea coastal current. The manner in which buoyant currents interact will influence the downstream coastal distribution of waterborne materials contained in individual currents, with ecological and societal importance. While clearly an important phenomenon on many coasts, the dynamics of interacting buoyant coastal currents, and the impacts of such interactions, remain poorly understood.

As researchers, we are interested in investigating the dynamics of buoyant current interactions in a series of idealized and process oriented analytical studies and laboratory experiments.The principle objective of this study is to determine the details of the cross-shore and vertical structure of buoyancy and velocity within two interacting buoyant coastal currents and their dependence on control parameters including density anomaly, current transport, bottom slope, and rotation rate. Both surface-trapped currents, which do not feel the bottom, and slope-controlled currents, which are steered by the action of the bottom boundary layer, will be examined. 

Analytical studies will look at the structure of coupled, geo-strophically adjusted currents. Rotating tank experiments will be conducted to track the interaction of two buoyant currents, and to test the predictions of the analytical model. The laboratory and analytical studies will complement each other allowing for a robust assessment of the final results. This study will lead to a greatly improved understanding of the dynamics of buoyant coastal currents and their interaction, and will advance our capability of modelling buoyant currents. In addition, this project will allow the transfer of extensive experience, knowledge, and expertise of Dr. Cenedese to the host institution.


'''For more information, please visit [http://www.kg2.eurocean.org EurOcean Knowledge Gate]'''.

[[Category: RRI Projects]]