2D Numerical Study on Tidal Circulation in Strait of Dover

Abstract

A two-dimensional numerical study of the tidal circulation in the Strait of Dover is presented. In this study, a depth-averaged model, which employs a finite-difference, splitting technique was used. The present model was calibrated with observed spring tides, and then verified by observed neap tides. Using a fine computing mesh, we obtained detailed information on the hydrodynamic structure of tidal circulation in the Strait of Dover. Several eddy cells due to complex topography and morphology of the studied domain are detected for the first time. The model results show: (1) the residual-transport current field is characterized by two currents, one flowing closely to the French coastline and another coming from the western English Channel, flowing along the English coast and then meeting the former to pass through the strait; and (2) under the effect of the Earth's rotation, sea-surface gradients as well as velocity vectors are rotary counterclockwise.