Solutions for Subtidal Flow in Channels and Estuaries under Different
Integral Constraints
Abstract
This study builds on Huntley and Ryan (2018) and related prior works on
channels and estuaries by considering solutions for the same subtidal
dynamics but with alternative integral flow constraints. Prior solutions
do not have a truly two-dimensional (2D) flow field, as axial changes in
the axial flow are implied. Three constraint types are considered: the
Constant case with spatially constant density gradients constrained with
section-integrated flow (as in prior works), Semi-Variable case with a
constant axial density gradient and laterally variable lateral density
gradient constrained with depth-integrated lateral flow, and Variable
case with spatially variable density gradients in both directions
constrained with depth-integrated axial and lateral flows. The
Semi-Variable and Variable cases can produce solutions with truly 2D
flow if the depth-integrated lateral flow is set to zero everywhere.
Differences among solutions are illustrated with idealized and realistic
applications from Huntley and Ryan (2018). For the idealized
application, the Constant case and the Semi-Variable case with 2D flow
have clear differences in axial velocity and stark contrasts in lateral
flow (and density gradients). For the Nares Strait application, the
Variable case with observed depth-averaged axial and lateral velocities
is best able to represent the fastest observed down-channel velocities,
the weak reversed flow on one side of the channel, and the observed
lateral flow structure. Overall, selecting different integral
constraints on flow conspicuously changes the subtidal flow, opens up
new possibilities for truly 2D flow solutions, and provides additional
flexibility for representing observed conditions in realistic
situations.