Frontogenesis, Mixing, and Stratification in Estuarine Channels with Curvature

Abstract Idealized numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the influence of channel curvature on estuarine stratification and mixing. Stratification is decreased tidal energy dissipation increased in sinuous estuaries compared straight estuaries. We applied a vertical salinity variance budget quantify straining mixing stratification. Secondary circulation due found affect channels through both lateral enhanced Alternating negative positive occur meanders upstream downstream bend apex, respectively, corresponding normal reversed secondary with curvature. The locally curved maximum located apex. Bend-scale bottom fronts are generated near inner bank apex as result interaction between flow Shear at fronts, instead overturning by circulation, provides dominant mechanism for destruction Channel can also lead drag, using Simpson number this drag coefficient relate decrease broader parameter space.