A theoretical investigation of the M2 constituent of the tide in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Authors
Gainer, Thomas H. Jr.
Subjects
tides
Gulf of Mexico
tidal prediction
M2 constituent
numerical prediction of tides
Gulf of Mexico
tidal prediction
M2 constituent
numerical prediction of tides
Advisors
Date of Issue
1966-05
Date
May 1966
Publisher
Language
en_US
Abstract
An ability to predict tides in the open sea is of value to oceanographers and coastal engineers. This study attempts to attain this goal of deep-sea tidal prediction by application of the hydrodynamic equations to individual tidal constituents. Similar treatments by Hansen and Rossiter with less general application were very successful. Adaptation of the method to the digital computer contributes considerably to its usefulness and versatility. Specific solutions are sought in the Gulf of Mexico for the M2 tidal constituent in an attempt to explain abrupt shifts in tidal forms along the Gulf Coast. One hand calculation solution using relaxation techniques on a coarse grid was undertaken. Computer solutions were obtained for actual depths with a coarse grid and for constant depth with a much finer grid. Cotidal and corange analyses of the computer solutions both fit well with coastal data indicating that bathymetry is not as influential in the tidal form shifts as expected. The technique utilized is judged effective and its refinement and application to other basins is recommended.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Meteorology and Oceanography
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.