Modeling Dynamic Processes of Mondego Estuary and Óbidos Lagoon Using Delft3D

Estuarine systems currently face increasing pressure due to population growth, rapid economic development, and the effect of climate change, which threatens deterioration their water quality. This study uses an open-source model high transferability (Delft3D), investigate physics quality dynamics, spatial variability, interrelation two estuarine Portuguese west coast: Mondego Estuary Óbidos Lagoon. In this context, Delft3D was successfully implemented validated for both through model-observation comparisons further explored using realistically forced process-oriented experiments. Model results show (1) accuracy predict local hydrodynamics fair transport systems; (2) importance geomorphology estuary dimensions in tidal propagation asymmetry; (3) (except south arm) has a higher volume exchange with adjacent ocean when compared Lagoon, resulting from highest fluvial discharge that contributes better renewal; (4) dissolved oxygen (DO) varies temperature salinity differently systems. On one hand, during winter DO levels mainly fluctuate salinity. other distribution is determined by During summer, residence time limit The superior stability make foundation realistic simulation research distinct systems, giving support maintenance restoration.