Estuary models

MODEL NAME

POLEST1

MODEL DESCRIPTION 

A 1-dimensional (cross-sectionally averaged) model for application to : tidal- propagation, salinity intrusion, sediment and tracer distributions in estuaries.

CONCEPT/APPROACH Uses explicit finite-difference numerics , based on axial sections, to solve 1-D dynamical , continuity and conservation equations.

TIME-SPACE ENVIRONMENT APPLICABILITY Courant condition (Dx/Dt>(gH)½ ) for tidal propagation,Peclet condition (Dx/Dt>U) for conservation. Minimal computation effort allows simulations from days to centuries.

Best suited to meso/macro tidal estuaries (not stratified), finer suspended sediments, and tracers with flushing times/ half-lives > 6 hrs.

INTERCOMPARISONS

Intercomparisons wit analytical,2-D and 3-D simulation in EstProc (add ref)

DATA REQUIREMENTS Boundary Conditions:

                         Seawards : tidal heights
                                     Concentrations for marine tracers

                         Tidal limit: river flow
                                     Concentrations for fluvial tracers

Coefficients: Bed Friction, half-lives for tracers, erosion and deposition rates, axial dispersion rates

Validation, tidal heights/currents; salinity distribution,bathymetric adjustment rates

APPLICATIONS

Thames (add ref) Mersey (add ref)

QUALITY ASSURANCE/ SKILL FACTORS/ Specify

SUPPORT/ USER-GROUP

Part of POLCOMS system supported by POL - Name  : Andrew Lane

                                         E-mail: ale@pol.ac.uk
                                         www   :