Penetrative Convection Modifies the Dynamics of Downslope Gravity Currents

Gravity currents contribute to the transport of heat and mass in atmospheric aquatic environments. In systems subject daily surface cooling, gravity propagate through turbulent convective surroundings. Yet, effects thermal convection on remain be quantified. This paper demonstrates how interaction between penetrative downslope impacts fluid dynamics across littoral systems. We performed field experiments a wind-sheltered lake experiencing differential cooling resolve thermally driven Our situ observations reveal that plumes penetrate currents, generating large vertical fluctuations foster erosion stratified layer. enhanced mixing destroys flow limits basin-scale transport. results demonstrate controls littoral-pelagic connectivity ecosystems.