Model based assessment of the reflection behavior of tidal waves at bathymetric changes in estuaries

Abstract

Estuaries are often modified by human activities. Adjustments in the morphology of an estuary have a potential impact on the hydrodynamics and on the reflection behavior of the tide. The influence of such system changes on the complex tidal regime with a large number of superimposed tidal constituents is not fully understood yet. The reflection properties of estuaries that are characterized by abrupt changes in geometry are systematically investigated on the basis of simplified estuary model approaches to improve the understanding of the oscillation and reflection behavior of tidal waves in estuaries. The reflection coefficients at abrupt cross-sectional changes are determined by two different methods, i.e., an analytical energy-based approach and a hydrodynamic numerical (HN) model. Comparisons indicate a high agreement of the results of the different methods when evaluating the reflection coefficient. The tidal constituents are reflected at partial and total reflectors and amplified by shoaling depending on the water depths, the height of the bottom step and the horizontal constriction. A harmonic analysis of simulated water level data partly shows the formation and amplification of higher harmonic components as a result of shallow water effects. The interaction with reflectors results in an increasing amplification of the tidal constituents and the tide.