Density Currents Entering Lakes and Reservoirs

Abstract

The current state of knowledge of density currents caused by negatively (dense) or positively (light) buoyant flows entering stratified or unstratified lakes and reservoirs is reviewed and evaluated. Emphasis is given to heavier than ambient flows that plunge below the surface and move along the lower boundary of the receiving water in their initial stage of propagation. The behavior of entering flow, plunging flow, density current, separating flow, and interflow is briefly described. Methods commonly used in the analysis of various flow regimes (zones) are presented. Selected references and examples of the application of density currents are provided to assist the practicing hydraulic and environmental engineering community. Finally, gaps in the current knowledge and research needs are identified for the hydraulic engineering research community.