An Investigation of the Mixing and Exchange Characteristics in Tidal Channels of Radial Sand Ridges in the South Yellow Sea, China

Yao, J. and Tao, J., 2018. An Investigation of the Mixing and Exchange Characteristics in Tidal Channels of Radial Sand Ridges in the South Yellow Sea, China. In: Shim, J.-S.; Chun, I., and Lim, H.S. (eds.), Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2018 (Busan, Republic of Korea). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 85, pp. 136–140. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208.A three-dimensional hydrodynamic model coupled with a Lagrangian particle tracking model was applied in the radial sand ridges (RSR) area of the South Yellow Sea to investigate the flow and mass exchange characteristics between different channels. The Xiyang (XY), Chenjiawucao (CJWC), Kushuiyang (KSY) and Huangshayang (HSY) channels were chosen to represent the channels in all directions. The results showed that during the neap tides at both the surface and bottom locations, the particles were limited in their respective channels characterized by similar reciprocating trajectories. During the spring tides, the particles moved along reciprocating straight lines or in a clockwise spiral. The vertical circulation and water exchange in the tidal channels were significant, coinciding with the movement patterns of the particles. The hydrodynamic characteristics of the RSR are responsible for the significant differences of the transport characteristics in different channels. The XY Channel is controlled by the reciprocating flow, while others are dominated by varying degrees of rotary flow. The special geomorphology also plays an important role. The outcomes of this study may provide theoretical support for environmental management regarding the RSR area.